S J Suryah, Sai Pallavi, Shwetha Mohan among recipients of Kalaimamani awards

The Tamil Nadu government on Wednesday announced the recipients of its prestigious Kalaimamani Awards for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023. The Kalaimamani Award, Tamil Nadu's highest civilian honour, is presented to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the fields of arts, literature, and culture. Actors Manikandan, S J Suryah, Sai Pallavi, Vikram Prabhu, and music director Anirudh are among those who have been named by the Tamil Nadu government for the awards.

Actors S J Suryah, Sai Pallavi, director N Lingusamy, and stunt choreographer Super Subbarayan were among the 30 individuals selected for the prestigious Kalaimamani Awards for the year 2021. For 2022, actor Vikram Prabhu and lyricist Viveka were among the 30 recipients announced.

The list of Kalaimamani awardees for 2023 includes acclaimed character actor George Maryan, who impressed audiences with his performance in the blockbuster film Dragon, popular music director Anirudh Ravichander, and playback singer Shwetha Mohan.

Dance choreographer Sandy, who has also acted in the Telugu hit Kishkindhapuri and the Malayalam blockbuster Lokah, has been named among the 2023 recipients as well.

Following the announcement, director Lingusamy shared a video expressing his gratitude and joy. He said, “They have announced a Kalaimamani Award for me. Thank you very much. I once read an essay by the late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi in Murasoli, where he said that the award should be accepted like a mother’s kiss. I love that thought.”

The director expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who had supported his journey. “I’m truly happy to receive this honor. I thank all the technicians and actors I've worked with, my friends, and my family. It is their happiness that motivates me to go further and do more,” he said.