The Telangana Government has announced that Jayaraj, a famous poet, lyricist, and singer, will be receiving the “Kaloji Narayana Rao Award” for the year 2023. This award is given every year by the State Government in memory of Padma Vibhushan “Praja Kavi” Kaloji Narayana Rao. The Chief Minister, K Chandrashekhar Rao, selected Jayaraj for this prestigious award based on the recommendations of a committee constituted by the state government. The award is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of Literature and Culture.
The award will be presented to Jayaraj at an official function on September 9, which marks Kaloji’s birth anniversary. During the ceremony, Jayaraj will receive a memento and a cash prize of Rs 1,01,116.
Jayaraj, who is 60 years old and originally from old Warangal (now Mahabubabad district), has overcome many hardships since his childhood and achieved fame as a poet. Coming from a poor Dalit family, he focuses on creating a society that is free from discrimination through his literary works. Jayaraj draws inspiration from Buddha’s teachings and Ambedkar’s writings.
During the Telangana movement, Jayaraj actively participated as a people’s poet and promoted the Telangana ideology through cultural programs in villages. He has also written songs about environmental conservation and the significance of nature. Through his literature, Jayaraj explores the intricate relationship between mankind and nature. Many of his books have already gained popularity.
