Chennai, Sep 24 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has announced that actors Manikandan, S J Suryah, Sai Pallavi, Vikram Prabhu, and music director Anirudh are among the esteemed recipients of the Kalaimamani Awards.

On Wednesday, the Tamil Nadu government revealed the winners of these prestigious awards for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023. The Kalaimamani Award is the highest civilian honour awarded by the Tamil Nadu government, recognizing individuals for their exceptional contributions to the domains of arts, literature, and culture.

For 2021, notable figures including actors S J Suryah, actress Sai Pallavi, director Lingusamy, and stunt choreographer Super Subbarayan were selected from a list of 30 recipients. In 2022, actor Vikram Prabhu and lyricist Viveka were honored among the same group.

The awards for 2023 saw Manikandan, who has consistently delivered blockbuster films, alongside actor George Maryan, recognized for his exceptional supporting role in the hit film 'Dragon.' Renowned music director Anirudh and celebrated singer Shwetha Mohan were also included among the winners.

Notably, dance choreographer Sandy, who has made appearances in the Telugu blockbuster 'Kishkindhapuri' and the Malayalam hit 'Lokah,' has also been honored as a winner for 2023.

Director Lingusamy, upon hearing the news, shared his joy and gratitude in a video clip. He remarked, "Receiving the Kalaimamani Award is a deeply meaningful honor. I remember reading an essay by the late Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, where he stated that recipients should accept this award as if it were a mother's kiss. It resonates with me." The director expressed heartfelt thanks to all the technicians, actors, friends, and family who supported him throughout his career.

He added, "When I see their joy, I feel motivated to achieve even more. I owe a debt of gratitude to my teachers and my mentor Raji, as well as to producer R B Choudhary, who gave me my first opportunity in film."