BENGALURU: Sculptor of Ram Lalla idol installed at the Ram Mandir at Ayodhya, Arun Yogiraj, thanked Karnataka government for conferring him with Rajyotsava Award, noting that recognition is always important for an artist.
Arun Yogiraj was among 69 recipients of Rajyotsava awards, conferred upon by Karnataka government on November 1, state foundation day.
Speaking to ANI, Arun Yogiraj said, “I thank the Karnataka government for their faith. Recognition is always important for an artist. Considering my service in the field of sculpting, they are honouring me with the Rajyotsava Award, which is a dream for any Kannadiga.
“The sculptor said that the recognition will boost the artist community.
“This will boost our artist community. I’m doing work across the world. We have a discussion going around in Amsterdam, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and London. We have a Shiva temple proposal from Amsterdam and a Srinivasa temple in the UK. We have so many projects for our villages in and across India,” Yogiraj added.
Arun Yogoiraj’s wife Vijetha expressed her happiness after the award was conferred to her husband, and thanked Karnataka Chief Minister for the honour.
“It is a great moment because Kannada Rajyotsava is something which every Kannadiga waits for. We are feeling very happy. Our whole family is delighted, and we are proud that Arun is getting this award. Thank you, Karnataka Chief Minister, for honouring Arun with this honour”, Vijetha said.
The Karnataka Rajyotsava Award is the second highest civilian honour of the Karnataka state of India and is conferred on November 1, the day of the formation of Karnataka. The award is given to citizens who have made significant contributions in areas such as arts, literature, science, education, sports, medicine, public affairs, and social service. (ANI)