Valyathan wins Raja Ravi Varma award

Thiruvananthapuram, May 10 (UNI) Renowned painter V S Valyathan has been selected for the Raja Ravi Varma award of the Kerala government in recognition of his contributions to the field of art.

The award, carrying a cash prize of Rs one lakh and a plaque, would be presented to him at a date to be decided later, Jury Chairman Kanayi Kunhiraman told a news conference here today.

A four-member jury with Mr Kunhiraman as chairman, Mr E K Bharat Bhushan, sculptor V K Rajan and cartoonist Yesudasan as members selected Mr Varma considering his contribution for the last seven decades.

Born in a royal family, Mr Varma followed the style of Raja Ravi Varma. ''Themmadikattu,'' 'Sleeping beauty'' and ''Venalkalam'' were some of his prominent works.

UNI CGV1750