Megastar Chiranjeevi, not just renowned for his iconic contributions to the film industry but also recognized for his philanthropic endeavors, recently received the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India. Demonstrating his gratitude and commitment to promoting arts and culture, Chiranjeevi hosted a reception at his residence, celebrating and honoring Padma Shri awardees from Telangana.
Among the distinguished guests were Yakshagana artist Gaddam Sammaiah and sculptor Dr. Anandachari Velu, both recipients of the Padma Shri award. Chiranjeevi personally felicitated them, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to the field of arts.
The Padma Shri awardees from Telangana included Dasari Kondappa, a skilled Burra Veena player from Narayanpet, and Gaddam Sammaiah, a seasoned Chindu Yakshaganam theater artist from Jangaon. Dr. Anandachari Velu, a highly regarded sculptor, was also honored for his remarkable achievements in the realm of art and architecture.
Gaddam Sammaiah, with over 19 thousand performances in the last five decades, has dedicated his life to Chindu Yakshaganam. His portrayal of Keechakudi in the 1985 show ‘Keechakavadha’ earned him recognition, along with several awards such as the Telugu University Merit Award (1994), Kala Ratna Award (1995), and the Telangana Abirbhava Award (2017).
Dr. Anandachari Velu played a pivotal role in the reconstruction of the Yadadri temple, employing Krishna stone as the primary material. Serving as the Pradhan Sthapathi, he meticulously designed stone sculptures in various architectural styles. Velu’s training at the Shilpa College of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam and his role as a Sthapathi in the Devadaya branch of the united Andhra Pradesh showcased his dedication to the art of sculpture.
Expressing his joy, Chiranjeevi praised Gaddam Sammaiah for his unwavering efforts in preserving and promoting the endangered Chindu Yakshagana art form. He extended his gratitude to the central government for recognizing such invaluable contributions to art and urged both the central and state governments to support and protect artists and their families, emphasizing the importance of preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
Chiranjeevi also congratulated Dr. Anandachari Velu for his innovative contributions to sculpture, specifically acknowledging his role in the reconstruction of the Yadadri temple with Krishna stone.
Both Sammaiah and Velu expressed their happiness and gratitude for the honor bestowed upon them by Chiranjeevi. They considered the experience of being invited to his residence and personally acknowledged by the Megastar as an unforgettable and cherished moment in their lives.
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