Mangaluru: The Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education conferred the prestigious Sandesha Awards 2026 on January 21 at the Sandesha Institute Grounds, honouring individuals and institutions whose creative work reflects deep-rooted cultural, ethical, and human values. The annual awards recognize outstanding contributions across literature, art, media, education, music, and social service, highlighting creativity that is guided by conscience and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Addressing the gathering, Bishop Henry D’Souza of Ballari, President of the Sandesha Foundation, reflected on the organization’s 35-year journey in fostering social harmony through culture and literature. He emphasized that achievements attain true significance only when grounded in love, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. Urging writers and artists to remain sensitive to social realities, he described them as the moral conscience of society, entrusted with shaping thought and dialogue.
Highlighting India’s strength in unity amid diversity, Bishop D’Souza reminded the awardees that the honour bestowed upon them carries an added responsibility. He called upon them to actively contribute towards strengthening peace, unity, and social cohesion through their continued creative engagement.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekar renowned filmmaker, writer, and lyricist described the Sandesha Foundation as an important bridge connecting religions, languages, and cultures. He underlined the role of art and literature in humanizing society and resisting intolerance, particularly in an era increasingly marked by division and polarization.
Commending the coastal region for its vibrant cultural legacy and strong literary consciousness, Dr. Chandrashekar noted that the credibility of the Sandesha Awards lies in their transparent, merit-based selection process. He also encouraged the younger generation to remain connected to reading and literature despite the dominance of digital media, observing that the contemporary world needs peace and understanding far more than conflict.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures from religious, cultural, and public spheres, including Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha of the Diocese of Mangaluru, Shalette Pinto, Chairperson of the Karnataka Eco Tourism Board, Stany Alvares, President of the Konkani Sahitya Akademi, and Umar U. H., President of the Karnataka Beary Sahitya Akademi. Their presence reflected broad-based support for the Foundation’s mission of promoting culture rooted in social values.
Earlier, Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo of Udupi, MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath, and MLC Ivan D’Souza visited the venue to convey their greetings to the award recipients, though they were unable to attend the ceremony due to official engagements.
This year’s Sandesha Awards for literature were presented to Dr. Na. Mogasale (Kannada), Patrick K. Moras (Konkani), and Indira Hegde (Tulu). Other honours were conferred on S. G. Tungarenuka for Media, Simon Pais for Konkani Music, Srinivas G. Kappanna for Art, and Dr. Dattatreya Aralikatte for Education. A Special Honour was awarded to the Navajeevana Rehabilitation Centre for the Differently Abled, Ballari, in recognition of its dedicated service.
The awardees were acknowledged not only for their professional excellence but also for their sustained commitment to promoting social values. The jury was appreciated for maintaining balance, relevance, and meaningful social impact in the selection process.
Reiterating the Foundation’s vision, Director Fr. Sudeep Paul MSFS highlighted the need for ethical leadership and community-oriented cultural expression. Founded in 1989, the Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education continues to advance cultural education and artistic engagement through training programmes, festivals, seminars, and grassroots initiatives. The Sandesha Awards stand as a lasting symbol of creative excellence inspired by social responsibility and enduring human values.