Udupi: Sri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji of Pejawar Mutt, has called upon the younger generation to involve themselves in art, cultural as well religious activities which help in their overall development.

The seer was speaking after conferring  Sri Rama Vittala Awards to 12 eminent men on his Janmanakshatra Day at Udupi on May 8, Tuesday. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 10,000 and a citation.

He further said students must engage in those activities which not only help  in mental development but also makes them strong physically.

Sri Vishwavallabha Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sode Mutt, presided over the function, Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, DK District Kannada Sahitya Parishat President, Heranje Krishna Bhat, Director of Rashtrakavi Govinda Pai Research Center and others were present on the occasion.

Those felicitated   were Sandhya S Pai (Journalism), H Gopal Bhat, KuGo, H Dundiraj (Literature), Dr KP Putthuraya (Education), Dr K Srinivas Banninthya (Medical), Haladi Jayaram Shetty, Vidwan Ganapathi Bhat,Nidle Govinda Bhat, Airody Govindappa Sampaje Sheenappa Rai (Yakshagana), Ganjeefa Raghupathi Bhat (Painting) and Kamala Bhat (Dance),