Jnanpith Award conferred on Vairamuthu; highest literary award returns to Tamil after 24 years

CHENNAI: Renowned Tamil poet, lyricist and novelist Vairamuthu Ramasamy was conferred the highest Indian literary award, the Jnanpith. This is the first time since 2002 that the Tamil language has been selected for the Jnanpith Award. The award is given for Vairamuthu’s contribution to the Tamil language and culture. The award consists of Rs 11 lakh, a bronze statue of Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), and a plaque. Vairamuthu is a recipient of the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri.