Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Oct 10: In recognition of her lifelong contribution to education and cultural enrichment, 81-year-old teacher and Yakshagana artist Savitri S Rao from Mangaluru has been selected for the prestigious I Lesa Vayo Samman 2025 award. The honour is presented annually by I Lesa as part of its foundation day celebrations.
A retired teacher from Ashoknagar Higher Primary School, Mangaluru, Savitri Rao served in the field of education for nearly 27 years. Renowned for conducting numerous personality development camps for children, she has inspired students through activities such as Bhagavad Gita recitation, Bhavageete singing, storytelling, and elocution workshops held in over 500 schools.
Remarkably, she learned Yakshagana dance at the age of 66 and has since performed in 113 shows, also participating as a percussionist on chende and maddale. Through her journey, she has exemplified that learning has no age limit. In addition to stage performances, she has written and performed Kannada and Tulu songs and plays for All India Radio, gaining wide popularity among listeners.
Savitri Rao is also a noted writer. Her works include the poetry collection Navilugari, Haadu Baa Kogile and the story collections Ondu Gubbiy Kathe and Huliyannu Mechchida Huduga, which have become favourites among children. Through Aashajyoti, she has organized special cultural events and excursions for differently-abled individuals. Together with her husband, she founded the Kallavu Savitri Srinivas Trust, which supports the education of underprivileged students.
Acknowledging her selfless contributions, I Lesa will confer the Vayo Samman award on Sunday, October 26, at 1:00 pm at Akshaya Sabhangana, Bokkapatna, Mangaluru. The award includes a total cash prize of Rs 1 lac, featuring Rs 81,000 corresponding to her age, along with gifts of her choice. The ceremony will also feature music, literature, and cultural programmes.
Eminent personalities from India and abroad, as well as Savitri Rao’s students and colleagues, are expected to attend the event. I Lesa Mumbai coordinator Suri Marnadu has invited the public to participate in this socially meaningful celebration. For further details, he stated that interested individuals may contact Ananth Rao Gopalpatte, Ajesh Charmadi, or Vivek Mandekar.