Visakhapatnam: A national-level creative essay competition on India–Pakistan diplomatic relations in the wake of “Sindhura Operation” drew an overwhelming response from Telugu writers across the globe, culminating in a grand award ceremony in Visakhapatnam on February 12, 2026.
Organised by Visakha Samskruthika Monthly Telugu magazine, headquartered in Visakhapatnam, the competition received over 150 entries from Telugu-speaking participants in India and abroad. The magazine, which has been conducting national literary competitions for nearly one and a half decades, enjoys a wide readership through both its print and e-publication formats.
After a rigorous three-tier screening process by the editorial board and jury, the top honour — the “Padmasri Acharya Dr. Kutikuppala Surya Rao National Award” — was conferred on Mrs. K. Manju Sri, former District and Sessions Judge of Hyderabad. Her essay was adjudged the best among the shortlisted entries.
The award ceremony was held at the Public Library in Visakhapatnam in the presence of distinguished guests, including Justice D. Dharma Rao, Col. K. Shivaji, and Kutikuppala Surya Rao. Mrs. Manju Sri received a cash prize of ₹10,116 along with a shawl, garland, and memento as part of the felicitation.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Surya Rao, who instituted the award, said such recognitions are meant to “ignite the inner fire” in individuals and inspire the youth of the country. He described the initiative as a patriotic service aimed at guiding society in the right direction. Drawing parallels from Indian epics, he cited the competitions of Shiva Dhanassu at Sita Swayamvaram and the Matsya Yantra challenge in Draupadi’s swayamvar as examples of the nation’s long-standing cultural tradition of merit-based selection. He also stressed the need to inculcate Sanatana Dharma values among Generation Z.
Justice Dharma Rao lauded the organisers for fostering meaningful intellectual discussions, while Col. Shivaji shared his experiences at the Line of Control during his Army service.
The event, presided over by editor S. Sanyasi Rao, began with Jyothi Prajwalana and concluded with the National Anthem. A large gathering of literary figures, professionals, and citizens attended the ceremony.
