Hyderabad, July 08: The 18th anniversary celebrations of the Kalamandir Foundation were held on a grand scale at Pradhan Conventions in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. The mega event witnessed the participation of several prominent personalities from the political, film and business fraternities.
MLAs Prathipati Pulla Rao, Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Bhashyam Praveen; former MLA Bigala Ganesh Gupta; police officer Sajjanar; film producers Bandla Ganesh and SKN; actors Murali Mohan, Akkineni Amala, Shivaji, Shivaji Raja and Raja Ravindra; Dr. Ch. Preethi Reddy; director Nandini Reddy; and Nikhat Zareen were among the distinguished guests who attended the event.
Marking its journey into its 18th year, the Kalamandir Foundation organised a series of special initiatives reflecting its continued commitment to social responsibility.
The ‘Seva Ratna’ Awards were presented to individuals who have been working tirelessly behind the scenes for the welfare of society. Through these awards, the Foundation recognised and honoured their dedicated service and contribution to the community.
As part of its educational initiatives, merit scholarships were distributed to talented students to support them in pursuing higher education. The Foundation also extended financial assistance to handloom weavers and orphanages, reaffirming its commitment to supporting traditional livelihoods and vulnerable sections of society.
A fashion show featuring persons with disabilities emerged as one of the major highlights of the celebrations. A special panel discussion featuring eminent personalities was also organised to deliberate on social issues and the expansion of community service initiatives.
Candidates who successfully completed skill development training programmes conducted under the aegis of the Foundation were presented with graduation certificates on the occasion.
Padma Shri awardee Deepika Reddy was felicitated by Jhansi. National badminton player Surya Charishma was honoured by MLAs Ganta Srinivasa Rao and Prathipati Pulla Rao. Special awards were presented to Enugu Shiva Aryan Reddy and Karunasri of Amrutha Hastham Trust.
Pranav Enterprises CEO and Swayam Krushi Trust founder Kranthi Sagar addressed the gathering.
Nakshatra R. Gola, Malla Tulasi Rambabu, Guntiram Jena, Gangadhar Gupta, Tank Bund Shiva, Dr. Raghunathan and Rama Rao were honoured with the Seva Ratna Awards for their contributions to society. Gajam Narendra was also felicitated during the programme.
Dr. Preethi Reddy honoured 30 handloom weavers at the event. Caps Gold contributed ₹30 lakh as a donation towards the Foundation’s social initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, veteran actor Murali Mohan appreciated the Foundation for organising such meaningful social service programmes and said that initiatives of this nature deserved recognition and encouragement.
MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao recalled the words of Mother Teresa and said, “Hands that serve are holier than lips that pray.” He appreciated the Foundation’s efforts in promoting a culture of service.
MLA Prathipati Pulla Rao lauded the organisers for conducting inspiring programmes that encourage individuals and organisations to contribute to society.
Actor Shivaji said, “Our culture teaches us the noble thought that everyone should prosper and that we should be among them. Kalamandir deserves appreciation for organising such a remarkable programme. No matter how much wealth one earns, ultimately our needs are limited. If we help someone in need, somewhere and in some form, I strongly believe that the goodness will return to our children. Whatever position I am in today is because of the good deeds of my parents.”
The programme was organised under the leadership of Kalamandir Managing Director Chalavadi Prasad, Director Kalyan Annam and CEO Bharadwaj.