President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Shri award upon K. Pajanivel, a renowned Silambam guru from Puducherry, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the traditional sport and martial art of Silambam. Before accepting the award, he performed Dandavat Pranam (full prostration) before Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A video of the moment has gone viral on social media. Let us find out more about K. Pajanivel.
He was born on January 30,1947,in Pooranankuppam,Puducherry. Pajanivel began his journey in Silambam under the guidance of Master Rajaram. He spent several decades making his career. He has played a significant role in the preservation, promotion, and popularization of this ancient Tamil martial art, both in India and abroad.
In 2023 he got Sangeet Natak Award for martial arts. He also got Kalaimamani Award conferred by the Government of Puducherry in 2012,the Best Youth Award presented by Nehru Yuva Kendra in 2004 and in 2002 he received Silambam International Award.
