NAGPUR: The Rajratna Puraskar 2020 was conferred on Friday at Senior Bhonsala Palace, Mahal, to seven people for bringing laurels to Maharashtra in various fields through their extraordinary efforts.
The event took place in commemoration of Raje Raghuji Maharaj Bhonsale’s (first) death anniversary. It was organized jointly by Nagpur Trust’s Shrimant Raje Raghuji Maharaj Bhonsale (first) Bahuuddeshiya Memorial Foundation, and Maharaja.
The program was inaugurated by MLC Girish Vyas in the presence of the Bhonsale foundation president and the Raje Raghuji Maharaj Bhonsale chief guest for the evening. The role was presided over by Chhattisgarh Governor Anusuiya Uikey. The event’s convener, Rajratna Puruskar Samiti President Raje Mudhoji Bhonsale.
Noted actor, personality of the theater and Padma Vibhushan award winner Shivshahir Babasaheb Purandare was awarded the prize for his glorious work in the fields of history and literature.
The award for excellence in the field of journalism was awarded to Santosh Deshmukh of Sindkhed Raja. The award was given to the versatile Hindustani classical vocalist Tanuja Nafde for her contribution to the cultural sphere. Professor Sangita Tekade was awarded the prize for her featured theatre work while photojournalist Vilas Aglave was awarded the prize for his journalism contribution.
Krushna Prakash, IPS officer, Mumbai, who was unable to attend the programme, has been awarded for his sporting excellence. Aarya Kalamkar was awarded the under 18 prizes for dance and Sarvesh Peshkar for sport (karate).
Mudhoji Bhonsale said in his introductory remarks, “This banner was earlier named Vidarbha Gaurav Puraskar. We have decided to expand our horizons and honor people across the state so it has been rebranded as’ Rajratna Puruskar.’ We received 578 nomination proposals this year and the committee zeroed in on seven names.
“Speaking on the occasion, Vyas said,” It is a Herculean task in itself to select seven names to be honored among the almost 600 people who have done tremendous work in their respective fields. The courageous past of Raje Raghuji Maharaj Bhonsale unravels before us when an individual is awarded this honor.
“He urged the office bearers to build a library on the premises so that students can acquire knowledge about the Bhonsale legacy. Uikey said, “When recognition and congratulations are given to personalities engaged in positive activities, positivity increases in the society and people are inspired to do admirable work.” She congratulated all award winners.
The plan, directed by Sarang Thok.
Earlier, the guests opened the event to spread awareness by releasing balloons in the air, carrying the message’ Save Water.’ The presence was noted by Thakur Bais and MLAs Mohan Mate and Dinanath Padole.
