The event highlighted the rich cultural and literary heritage of Tamil poetry and honoured Kavimamani Dr. S. Srividhya, a Kottivakkam resident and a teacher of The Hindu Senior Secondary School, Adyar. The multi-talented teacher was recognised for achievements in singing, dancing, poetry, oratory, and rangoli (Kolam), and was presented a gold ring. 

Dr. Srividhya has created numerous world records in education and has authored books dedicated to promoting Tamil literature. She can be reached at 89390 52902.

The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Lion J P Singh, PMJF, Past International Director, and Lion M Sridhar, PMJF, District Governor (2023-2024).

Under Hamdi’s leadership, the Lions Club of Anbalaya spearheaded several impactful initiatives, notably flood relief efforts in Thoothukudi, which provided crucial aid to communities affected by natural disasters. His tenure exemplified the spirit of community service and the Lions Club’s mission to make a difference in society.Hamdi is a resident of Adyar and can be contacted at hamid@merituseducation.com.

During the seminar, Shanta Sheela Nair, IAS, was honoured with the Dr. Verghese Kurien Sustainable Development Award for her significant contributions to society. The award was presented by Dr. Raja Rathinam, Managing Director of the UNDP Project SKPCL, in consultation with Mrs. Nirmala Kurien.

The seminar included discussions on sustainable dairying practices and methods for integrating cow dung into bio-gas production. The proposal aims to convert 50% of cow dung and urine into bio-gas within five years, creating sustainable livelihoods for farmers. The dried manure will be used for organic farming. The forum also called for eco-friendly dairy techniques and humane animal handling practices.

The recommendations from the seminar will be sent to relevant authorities for implementation, with further studies suggested to optimize the use of cow dung in dairying.

“She stands as a guardian of our precious beaches by involving herself in its cleanliness efforts, protection of the coastal environment and creating environmental awareness among the general public. Her determination and vision, even at this age, sets an example for all of us. Despite having been awarded many recognitions, the biggest reward for her is cleaner beaches. She always advocates that protecting our environment is not only our duty but it is an important part of our life. No matter what our age, we can make a difference. But we must act now!” said a statement from the group about Kamakshi.

The event was presided over by Justice S.Vaidyanathan – Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya, in the presence of M.Murali and R.Sundar of Hamsadhwani, dancer Padmini Krishnamurthy and B.Mohanasundaram (ONGC). The function was followed by a dance-drama ‘Deiveeha Vahanangal’ by Guru Padmini Krishnamurthy and her troupe.

The awards were distributed in three categories: Eminent Medical Teacher, Specialities and Research, and Outstanding Service in the field of socio-medical relief. A total of 10 doctors received these accolades for their dedication and excellence.

Neighbourhood doctor, Dr.A.Sundaramurthy, was one of the awardees at the event (standing extreme right). The senior consultant pulmonologist was earlier also chosen as the ‘Best Doctor’ by the Tamilnadu state in 2012. On Nov.10, 2021, he found a place in the India Book of Records for completing 100 online CMEs (Continuing Medical Education) by Omnicuris, during the Covid-19 period. Dr.Sundaramurthy is a resident of Sastri Nagar and can be reached at 98402 62184.

Gayathri is the daughter and disciple of Krishnaveni of Kalakshetra. She runs her Krishnadhwani School of Natya where she imparts Bharatanatyam training to many underprivileged children. Gayathri has been a part of many voluntary services and NGOs, and has been actively involved through her art. This award has been conferred for her services towards various social causes. Gayathri recently donated around Rs.3 lakh through her students’ dance program ‘Panchamukhi’ to Vishranthi Home for Destitute Women Chennai. She can be contacted at 88701 10275.

The programme started with a short cultural display, which included a dance and a mime on road safety. R.N.Sendhil Kumar – Principal of KV IIT, welcomed the gathering and encouraged the students to allocate 20 to 30 minutes every day to nurture their talents.

During this academic year, 14 competitions were held, which included individual and group participation, in 2 different categories – juniors, seniors and secondary students. Students enthusiastically participated in various competitions like debate, essay writing, solo singing, group song, Sanskrit shloka recital, rangoli, doll display, wealth out of waste, poster making, greeting card making, Rakhi making and group dance. Prizes for sports events and competitions held on account of Hindi Pakhwada and Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav were also distributed.The chief guest distributed certificates and prizes to more than 350 students and rolling trophies to Velu Nachiyar House (Overall Winner in Cultural competitions) and Marudhanayagam House (Runners-up). Prof. Prathap Haridoss, in his address, congratulated all the prize winners, acknowledged the efforts taken by the parents and teachers, and appreciated all the participants for their enthusiastic participation. The chief guest insisted that students should realise their interests and derive joy in pursuing their passion outside the formal process.

R.Seshasayee – Chairman of Adyar Cancer Institute and Asian Paints, and Padma Shri Dr Mohan Kameswaran – Managing Director of Madras ENT Research Foundation graced the awards ceremony as distinguished guests of honour and gave away the awards to real-life heroes selected by the distinguished members of the ABA jury.

The awards under the Individual category were presented to 5 real-life heroes who put their lives at stake – V.Anburaj, Mohan, Humesh Dayalan and Raghvendra Kumar. The category of Going Beyond Call of Duty was presented to M.Jeyalakshmi, a staff nurse from Tuticorin, who helped deliver a baby during floods. Under the Organisation category, the following were awarded: Nizam’s Institute of Medical Science for eICU, United Way of Chennai, Dhara Sansthan and Dharani Geotech Engineers India Private Limited. The ALERT Being Icon Awards were presented to the incredible Rat-hole miners (Uttarakhand tunnel collapse) and Pudukudi Melur (Srivaikuntam Floods). ALERT Being Award for Lifetime Achievement was conferred on Ratan Tata for living a lifetime of legendary philanthropy along with business excellence.

The distinguished members of the ABA Jury were Veena Kumaravel – Founder of Naturals Group of Salons, Md. Shakeel Akhtar, IPS – DGP (Retd.), Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali – Heir apparent and Dewan to the Prince of Arcot, Dr J.S.Rajkumar – Chairman and Chief Surgeon at Lifeline Hospitals, Sujith Kumar – Founder of Maatram Foundation and Anandakrishnan – serial entrepreneur. The event had advisors in Dr. Renuka David, Managing Director, Radiant Medical Services and C. K. Kumaravel, CEO and Co-Founder, Natural Group of Salons.