In a landmark announcement made by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, the prestigious Kalaignar Memorial Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu for 2023 is set to honor two luminaries of the Tamil entertainment and literary world: celebrated playback singer P. Susheela and renowned poet Mu Metha. This award, initiated to commemorate the centenary year of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, carries great significance in recognizing outstanding contributions to Tamil cinema and literature.
The announcement, which was made on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, underscores the Kalaignar Memorial Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu’s importance. This accolade includes a cash reward of ₹10 lakh and a memento, celebrating the extraordinary talents of those who have significantly impacted Tamil cultural heritage. The introduction of this award was first proposed in 2022 during the legislative session dedicated to the budget allocations for the Tamil Development, Information & Publicity department.
The selection committee, formed to ensure deserving candidates are honored, is chaired by the acclaimed film director S.P. Muthraman. Esteemed members of the film industry, including celebrated actor Nazer and talented director Karu Palaniappan, also serve on this committee. The award’s inaugural recipient was the storied writer and dialogue creator Aroor Das, setting a high benchmark for future honorees.
The year 2024 is particularly significant as it marks the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary M. Karunanidhi, a towering figure in Tamil Nadu’s political and cultural landscape. To honor his legacy, Chief Minister Stalin directed the establishment of an additional award aimed at recognizing a female artiste. Based on recommendations from the committee, the illustrious playback singer P. Susheela has been selected for this honor. With a prolific career that has seen her render over 25,000 songs across multiple Indian languages, P. Susheela’s contribution to music is nothing short of monumental.
Apart from her remarkable musical prowess, P.
. Susheela’s dedication to her craft has earned her numerous accolades over the years, including national awards and recognition from various state governments. Her melodious voice has transcended generations, making her a beloved figure in the Indian music industry. The decision to award her this honor coincides with a renewed public interest and reverence for classical playback singing, spotlighting the enduring legacy of artists like her.
Complementing the music fraternity is the poetic genius of Mu Metha, who has been recognized not only for his contributions to Tamil literature but also for his role as an educator. As a Tamil teacher, Mu Metha has inspired countless students with his profound understanding and passion for the language. His literary works have garnered widespread acclaim, and his poetic dexterity earned him the prestigious Sahitya Akademi award. This acknowledgment by the Tamil Nadu government aims to celebrate his consistent efforts in enriching Tamil literature and fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.
The acknowledgment of these two stalwarts as recipients of the Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu highlights the Tamil Nadu government’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural excellence. The hefty cash prize and memento serve not just as rewards but as symbols of the respect and gratitude owed to these artists for their invaluable contributions.
The award ceremony is expected to be a grand affair, drawing attention from across the nation and adding to the centenary celebrations of M. Karunanidhi. It will be a moment of pride, not just for the awardees but also for millions of supporters and admirers who see in them the embodiment of Tamil heritage and tradition. Various cultural programs and performances are being planned to celebrate the recipients’ achievements, fostering a deeper connection between the public and the artists’ work.
As the music and literary community lauds this initiative, it sets the stage for future recognitions that will continue to celebrate and honor the rich cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu. The collaborative efforts of the committee and the government’s backing promise to uphold the tradition of excellence that M. Karunanidhi so passionately advocated.
In conclusion, the conferment of the Kalaignar Memorial Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu on P. Susheela and Mu Metha is a testament to their unparalleled contributions to Tamil culture and arts. It underscores a legacy of excellence, reverberating M. Karunanidhi’s enduring impact on Tamil Nadu’s cultural and political realms. The celebration of these icons reiterates the commitment to cultural preservation, inspiring future generations to follow in their illustrious footsteps.
