Actor Akkineni Nagarjuna presented the first edition of the Akkineni International Awards to the eight luminaries including renowned Telugu director K. Raghavendra Rao here on Wednesday.
Akkineni Foundation of America has instituted the awards in the memory of thespian Akkineni Nageswara Rao, who passed away earlier this year. The awardees are: K. Raghavendra Rao (Films), K. Vara Prasad Reddy (Science and Technology category), S. Parvatha Rao (Law and Justice), P. Sampath Kumar (Civil Service), M.N. Raju (Education), M. Gopichand (Health), G. Gopala Krishna (Theatre), Vamsi Ramaraju (Social Service).
Indian archer and bronze medallist in the 17th Asian Games V. Jyothi Surekha also received the award in the youth and sports category. The students and staff of the ANR College, Gudivada gave a standing ovation to the awardees .
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Mr. Nagarjuna and his family members launched a website, akkinenifoundation.org. “Our family members always cherish to spend time on our own soil, Ramapuram village in Krishna district”, said Mr. Nagarjuna during his address to the gathering at the awards function. Akkineni Foundation of America president Thotakura Prasad and other members also organised a photo exhibition on the life of ANR on the ANR College premises.
Eenandu group founder Ramoji Rao recalled his experiences with Akkineni Nageswara Rao and his acquaintance with the actor through a video message.