Popular poet and fiction writer Devdas Chhotray was awarded the 46th Sarala Puraskar on Sunday for his contributions to literature.
Prominent Hindi poet and writer, Professor Savita Singh, presented the award to Chhotray for his short-story collection, ‘Matinee Show’. The prize package included a copper plaque, a citation, and an award amount of Rs 7 lakh.
The Sarala Puraskar, instituted by the Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), is an annual award recognizing the best literary achievement.
Additionally, both the legendary Odissi musician and vocalist Guru Ramhari Das and the painter Baladev Maharatha received the ‘Ila-Bansidhar Panda Kala Samman’. Each artist was presented with a citation, a plaque, and Rs 2.5 lakh.
Presiding over the event, IMPaCT Trustee Paramita Panda remarked that Chhotray has consistently earned the admiration of readers and listeners for his distinctive presentation style.
Professor Singh said, “I am so very happy that my favourite poet, Devdas Chhotray has received this award. The depth of his poetry touches all who read him.”
Chhotray said he does not write for any uninformed audience.
“I write only for myself and for a few of my friends. I am grateful to the organisers of the Sarala Puraskar for considering ‘Matinee Show’ for the award,” he said.
