Seven chosen for Padma Shri from T.N.

Seven persons from the State have been chosen for the Padma Shri Award for their contribution in the fields of art, literature and education, medicine, and social work. ActorSowcarJanaki,Sadir dancerR

Seven persons from the State have been chosen for the Padma Shri Award for their contribution in the fields of art, literature and education, medicine, and social work. ActorSowcarJanaki,Sadir dancerR.Muthukannammal,ClarinetvidwanA.K.C.NatarajanandShehnai maestroS.BalleshBhajantri have been chosen from the arts sector. In the field of literature and education, Pollachi-basedSirpiBalasubramaniamhas beenrecognised. Diabetologist V.Seshiahhas been honoured for his contribution to treating the condition, especially gestational diabetes,andS.Damodaran,a socialworker, has been awarded for his work on constructing toilets and providing drinking water to remote villages.

Veteran actressSowcarJanaki said: “I have won so many awards for my performances over the years, including lifetime achievement awards. But I am immensely proud of this nationalhonour. It is like a crown to all the other awards I have beenhonouredwith.”

Beinghonouredfrom Tamil Nadu, and being among people from different fields who have been recognised,was special, she said.