Manjunath Kamath to receive first Raza award

Manjunath Kamath

NAGPUR: For Indian art's living legend Syed Haider Raza, Nagpur holds a special place in his heart. After all, his tryst with the canvas and its riot of colours began at Nagpur. Acknowledging this fact and also celebrating it is the Jawaharlal Darda Foundation, which has instituted an award - the Raza Puraskar - in the legendary artist's name.
Foundation chairman, Rajya Sabha MP Vijay Darda said, "The award is to encourage young artists of the country. We are sure this will help in the promotion of art as well. This award will be given on Raza saab's birthday which falls on February 22. But, this being the maiden year of the award, it will be given away in New Delhi. 39-year-old Manjunath Kamath has been selected for the honour." The award carries a cash prize of Rs 5 lakhs.
Born in Mangalore, Manjunath obtained his Bachelor's degree in sculpture from the Chamarajendra Academy of Visual Arts, Mysore, and was a 2002 'Artist in Residence' at the School of Art and Design, Cardiff in UK. He now lives in Delhi and has a studio in Hauz Khas village. Manjunath, who has had many solo exhibitions. uses a lot of imagery on canvas, updating his visual vocabulary and pushing the boundaries to create something new.

A work of Kamath on display in Delhi

Lauding Manjunath's work, Darda said, "This award is meant for new names which show promise and Manjunath is one of them. At various international exhibitions he has been the face of India and that's how he beat over 100 entries, which included many known names like Satish Gujral, Akbar Padamsee, Prabhakar Kolte, to earn this award. We will soon be showcasing his art in Nagpur too."
Members in the jury panel of the award included chairman of Lalit Kala Academy Ashok Vajpeyi, renowned painter Manu Parekh, noted filmmaker Kumar Sahani and art editor Bhavna Kakar.
Clippings (TOI)