In a momentous announcement in Tamil Nadu’s cultural landscape, revered playback singer P. Susheela and acclaimed poet Mu Metha have been named the recipients of the Kalaignar Memorial Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu for 2023. This respected award commemorates the birth centenary of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, acknowledging their significant contributions to Tamil cinema and literature.
The announcement was made by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Each awardee will receive a cash prize of ₹10 lakh and a memorable memento. The official declaration of the awards traces back to 2022 when it was first put forth in the Tamil Nadu Assembly during the discussion on grants for the Tamil Development, Information & Publicity department. The prestigious accolade is dedicated to recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary strides in the Tamil film industry.
The government’s initiative underlines the establishment of a committee to oversee the selection process. The panel, chaired by esteemed film director S.P. Muthraman, includes distinguished members such as actor Nazer and director Karu Palaniappan. The Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu, in its inaugural year, honored the famed story and dialogue writer Aroor Das.
Marking a significant milestone, 2024 celebrates the 100th birth anniversary of M. Karunanidhi. Responding to this historic occasion, Chief Minister Stalin directed the creation of an additional award dedicated to celebrating female artists in Tamil cinema. On careful deliberation, the committee recommended P. Susheela for her illustrious career, during which she has rendered over 25,000 songs in various Indian languages. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry, resonating across generations of music lovers.
P. Susheela’s career trajectory is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication.
. Her melodious voice has been a defining feature of Tamil cinema for decades, enchanting audiences since her debut. Her versatility in singing across genres and languages has earned her numerous accolades and a permanent place in the hearts of music enthusiasts.
Complementing Susheela’s honor, poet Mu Metha has also been recognized for his profound impact on Tamil literature. As a Tamil teacher and a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award, Mu Metha’s poetic contributions reflect the richness and depth of Tamil literary tradition. His works have inspired, educated, and touched countless individuals, solidifying his legacy as a pillar of Tamil poetry.
The honors afford a dual celebration of two vibrant facets of Tamil culture—music and literature, both of which have been instrumental in the cultural fabric of the region. The recipients, through their tireless dedication, have advanced Tamil cultural and artistic heritage, thus appropriately becoming the torchbearers of this prestigious award dedicated to M. Karunanidhi’s memory.
The news has garnered widespread recognition and applause within the artistic community and among the public. Many consider P. Susheela’s selection a tribute long overdue. Her journey from a budding playback singer to becoming one of the most respected voices in Indian cinema exemplifies the spirit of resilience and passion. Her collaborations with celebrated composers and singers have produced timeless classics that continue to be cherished today.
Similarly, Mu Metha’s recognition contributed to an acknowledgment of the power of the written word in shaping and reflecting societal values and emotions. As a poet and educator, his immense body of work resonates with the ethos of Tamil Nadu’s cultural and philosophical landscape.
The Karnanidhi Memorial Kalaithurai Vithakar Viruthu stands as a beacon of appreciation for outstanding contributors in Tamil film and literature. It not only honors individual excellence but also emphasizes the preservation and promotion of Tamil culture, principles strongly upheld by M. Karunanidhi during his lifetime.
With these awards, Tamil Nadu’s government reiterates its commitment to fostering a rich cultural environment where artistic talent is recognized, celebrated, and encouraged. P. Susheela and Mu Metha’s achievements amplified through this honor, continue to inspire upcoming generations of artists and literati, ensuring the legacy of Tamil art and culture thrives.
As the state gears up for the centenary celebrations, the accolades mark a perfect precursor, exemplifying the essence of Karunanidhi’s vision—a celebration of Tamil identity through music and literature.
