Wed Jan 07 11:13:32 UTC 2026: # Melattur Artist R. Mahalingam Honored with Prathiba Puraskar Award

The Story:
R. Mahalingam, the Managing Trustee of the Bhagavatamela Natya Nataka Trust in Melattur, was awarded the ‘Prathiba Puraskar Award’ by the Young Men’s Hindu Association (YMHA) Trust of Eluru, Andhra Pradesh. The award, named in memory of Telugu language patron Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao, recognizes senior artistes in classical dance, drama, and music. Kalaimamani Mahalingam received the honor for his six decades of dedication to preserving and promoting Telugu Bhagavata dramas originally conceived by Venkatrama Sastri, a contemporary of Saint Thyagarajaswami of Thiruvaiyaru.

Key Points:

  • January 7, 2026: R. Mahalingam receives the Prathiba Puraskar Award.
  • The award is presented by the Young Men’s Hindu Association (YMHA) Trust, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh.
  • The award commemorates Mandali Venkata Krishna Rao, a Telugu language patron.
  • Mahalingam is recognized for his work preserving Telugu Bhagavata dramas.
  • The dramas were created by Venkatrama Sastri, a contemporary of Saint Thyagarajaswami.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Prathiba Puraskar Award continues to recognize significant contributions to classical arts.
  • R. Mahalingam’s dedication to preserving Telugu Bhagavata dramas is acknowledged.
  • The award highlights the importance of maintaining traditional art forms.
  • The YMHA Trust plays a role in supporting and promoting classical arts and culture.

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