Bengaluru, 30 Oct

Film actor Prakash Raj, former Judge PB Bhajantri, former IAS officer H Siddaiah, Air Marshal (retd) Philip Rajkumar are among the 70 personalities who have been chosen for the prestigious Rajyotsava awards this year.

Socialist leader Konandur Lingappa, actor and director Vijayalakshmi Singh, civic worker Fakiri, veteran journalist M Siddarajau, ex-Alliance France president Zafer Mohiuddin are among the other recipients of the award.

The award consists of a 25 gram gold medal and Rs 5 lakh in cash, and will be presented on the occasion of the 70th State formation day 'Kannada Rajyotsava' on 1 November, official sources said.

Announcing the awards, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi said, 70 awards are being given and all districts have been given representation.

This time, 12 women have been selected for the award. While recognising and honouring the talents, social justice has also been ensured, he said.

Meanwhile, the State government also announced that veteran cinema and theatre actress Umashree has been selected for the Dr Rajkumar Award for lifetime achievement in Kannada cinema.

While film director NR Nanjundegowda for the Puttanna Kanagal Award, Richard Castelino has been chosen for the Dr Vishnuvardhan Award.

These three awards carry a cash prize of Rs five lakh each and a 50g gold medal, and they will be presented at the State Film Awards ceremony in Mysuru on 3 November