PADMARAJAN LITERARY AND CINEMA AWARDS, ALONG WITH THE INAUGURAL ‘AIR INDIA EXPRESS TALES OF INDIA’ AWARD PRESENTED

Thiruvananthapuram: In an elegant and prestigious evening dedicated to the celebration of Malayalam literature, cinema, and culture, Air India Express, ‘New India’s Smart Connector’, proudly collaborated with the Padmarajan Trust, named in honour of the legendary filmmaker and writer P. Padmarajan. This distinguished event marked the presentation of this year’s coveted Padmarajan Awards. Renowned luminaries from the realms of literature and Malayalam cinema graced the occasion. Notable personalities such as writer M. Mukundan, filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery, writer V.J. James, and director Shruthy Sharanyam were presented with the prestigious Padmarajan Awards for their remarkable contributions at Bharat Bhavan in Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram, today.

Air India Express introduced the inaugural ‘Air India Express Tales of India Award’. This special award is instituted to recognise the first major literary work of an up-and-coming writer, and this year’s recipient was the talented K.N. Prasanth. The awards were presented by the acclaimed filmmaker T.V. Chandran.

K.N. Prasanth, the recipient of the prestigious ‘Air India Express Tales of India Award’ for his remarkable debut novel, “Ponam,” was handed over a crystal memento. Inspired by the silhouette of AIX’s Boeing 737-8 aircraft, this unique token of recognition embodies excellence. In addition, Mr. Prasanth was also presented with a round-trip voucher to any destination within Air India Express’ extensive network, further underscoring the airline’s commitment to fostering literary talent.

Expressing his feelings, an elated Mr. K.N. Prasanth shared, “I am deeply honoured to be acknowledged for my inaugural literary work. The ‘Air India Express Tales of India’ award is truly distinctive, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed jury, led by eminent author Sara Joseph, for deeming my debut novel worthy of this recognition. This acknowledgement serves as an inspiration, and I thank Air India Express for instituting this award, which empowers and recognises promising Malayalam writers.”

The gathering also witnessed a screening of the acclaimed and award-winning film ‘Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakam,’ featuring the legendary actor Mammootty, directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery. The Padmarajan memoir, ‘Ormakalil Padmarajan,’ edited by Pradeep Panangad, was officially launched, adding to the excitement of the attendees. The event was also attended by Aju Varghese who addressed the audience at the grand event.

Anandapadmanabhan, the esteemed writer and son of the illustrious P. Padmarajan, extended a warm welcome to Air India Express into the esteemed Padmarajan Trust family. He expressed his delight at this unique partnership, noting that the airline’s distinctive livery has consistently reflected its deep cultural roots. Anandapadmanabhan commended Air India Express for its unwavering commitment to Malayalam culture and the people of Kerala and extended his best wishes to all the awardees.

Air India Express remains dedicated to supporting and encouraging young talent through this collaboration. The airline will continue its commitment by organising an insightful workshop for budding filmmakers and aspiring writers in partnership with the esteemed Padmarajan Trust. This initiative reflects Air India Express’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of creative minds and reaffirms its role as a contributor to the cultural and artistic tapestry of the region.