Sandesha Awards 2026 to Honor Exceptional Contributions in Mangaluru

The Sandesha Awards 2026 ceremony is set to take place on January 21, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Mangaluru, recognizing individuals and institutions for their exemplary contributions across various fields. The event will be held at the Sandesha Institute Grounds and presided over by Dr Henry D’Souza, the bishop of Bellary and chairman of the Sandesha Institute. This year’s awardees have been selected for their significant impact in literature, media, education, and the arts.

A Diverse Range of Awards Highlighting Talent

The awards encompass a variety of categories, showcasing the breadth of talent in the region. The Sandesha Literature Award in Kannada will be awarded to Dr Na Mogasale, while the Konkani equivalent will be presented to Patrick K Moras. The Tulu literature award will go to Dr Indira Hegde. Other notable recipients include S G Tunga Renuka for the Sandesha Media Award and Simon Pais, who will receive the Sandesha Konkani Music Award. The Sandesha Art Award will be conferred upon Srinivas G Kappanna, while the Sandesha Education Award will be awarded to Dr Dattatreya Aralikatte. Additionally, the Navajeevan Rehabilitation Centre for the Disabled in Ballari will receive a Special Recognition Award for its service to the community.

Renowned director and screenwriter Nagathihalli Chandrashekar will serve as the chief guest, joined by various distinguished guests, including Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, the bishop of Mangaluru, and other prominent figures from the legislative assembly and cultural institutions.

Celebrating a Legacy of Cultural Impact

The Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education, established in 1989 and registered as a charitable trust in 1991, has long been a champion of cultural initiatives in Karnataka. Its commitment to fostering a value-based society is evident in its various programmes that promote harmony and creativity in the arts, education, and media.

Over the decades, the foundation has positively influenced thousands of learners through diverse training programmes in music, dance, and journalism, among others. Recently, Sandesha signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Karnataka Dr Gangubhai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University, expanding its educational outreach to include certificate and diploma programmes.

The Sandesha Awards are a flagship initiative of the foundation, aimed at recognizing excellence coupled with social responsibility. By honoring outstanding contributions in literature, journalism, and the arts, the awards inspire value-driven leadership and creativity for the greater good.

As the Sandesha Awards 2026 approaches, the community looks forward to a celebration that not only acknowledges exceptional talent but also highlights the transformative role of individuals and institutions in society.