Veteran journalist Chandrashekhara Palettadi, originally from Puttur taluk, has been chosen for the prestigious Vyasaraya Ballal Award for 2026. The Vyasaraya Ballal Pratishthana announced the selection following a meeting held at Mumbai University, which will also host the award ceremony in the first week of December.
The esteemed award, instituted in memory of the renowned Kannada litterateur Vyasaraya Ballal, specifically honors achievers in journalism this year. This decision acknowledges Ballal's own distinguished career, which commenced in journalism before his transition to literature, notably contributing significantly to the growth of the 'Nudi' newspaper.
The selection committee, comprising Pratishthana convener Kusuma Ballal, Dr. G.N. Upadhya, Head of the Kannada Department at Mumbai University, and Dr. Poornima Sudhakar Shetty, unanimously recognized Palettadi's exceptional contributions to the field. Hailing from Palettadi in Bajathur village, Puttur, Chandrashekhara Palettadi has left an indelible mark on Kannada journalism in Mumbai.
For over three decades, he has served as the editor of 'Karnataka Malla', a role through which he is credited with igniting a 'Kannada revolution' in the new millennium and infusing new vitality into the language within the metropolitan city. His relentless dedication and efforts are widely acknowledged as the driving force behind 'Karnataka Malla's continued prosperity in Mumbai.
Palettadi's prolific writing includes over ten thousand editorials and columns penned for the newspaper. His profound impact extends beyond the written word; he is highly regarded by both Tulu and Kannada speaking communities in Mumbai, known for his straightforward approach and integrity. The Karnataka Government previously honored him with the Mohare Hanumantaraya Award and the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, further cementing his legacy. A felicitation volume, 'Aaptha Mitra,' also stands as a testament to his remarkable career.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK