Zee Kannada News, the beloved news channel of Kannadigas, proudly recognized and honoured distinguished achievers from various sectors across the state through its prestigious Real Stars Awards 2025. The grand award ceremony was held at the esteemed Ashok Hotel in Bengaluru, where 35 individuals were felicitated for their outstanding contributions in fields such as science, technology, health, agriculture, social service, and politics.
Presiding over the event, Hon’ble Chairman of the Legislative Council, Shri Basavaraj Horatti, lauded the services rendered by these real stars. He commended Zee Kannada News for consistently identifying and honouring the unsung heroes of Karnataka each year. “Donning a shawl and garland does not mark the end of your service. Let this be the foundation for many more meaningful contributions to society,” he blessed.
Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shri Shivaraj Tangadagi, praised Zee Kannada News for its people-centric and farmer-friendly approach. The Minister announced that his department would be addressing letters to senior film industry and the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce, urging a clarification from Mr. Kamal Haasan. Referring to the legendary Dr. Rajkumar’s role in the Gokak movement, the Minister emphasized that the ‘Dodmane’ (Rajkumar family) has always stood at the forefront for Kannada. Former Deputy Chief Minister and current BJP MLA of Malleswaram, Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan, also graced the stage and congratulated all the awardees, adding further glory to the evening.
Veteran actress Tara Anuradha and film producer Geetha Shivrajkumar were also present on the dais, adding star power to the event. The prestigious Real Stars Award recognized exceptional individuals across diverse fields for their exemplary contributions to society. This year’s distinguished awardees include Dr. A.S. Kiran Kumar (Former Chairman, ISRO), Dr. Prahlada Ramarao (DRDO Scientist), Dodda Ganesh (Former Cricketer), Kirankumar Tippareddy (Social Service), Mahantesh Sidagond Badachi (Educationist), A.C. Srinivas (Pulikeshi Nagar MLA & Social Service), Dr. B.R. Supreeth (Educationist), Pujya Sri Gurumurthy Guruji (Spiritual Saint), Yogananda Murthy (Agriculturist & Social Activist), Dr. Channabasayya Swamy Hirematt (Social Service), Lokesh Talikatte (Educationist), S.N. Siddaramappa (Retired Police Officer & Social Service), Mahesh Kumar (Sales Head, Mahaveer Projects), Dr. B. Manjunath (Educationist), S.L. Venkatesh (Babu) – Social Service, Shashi Deshapande (Artist), Raveesh K.P. (Entrepreneur), Dr. M. Ramachandrappa (Hoodi Chinni – Activist), B.H. Anil Kumar (Retired IAS Officer & Social Service), Dr. R.M.N. Ramesh (Progressive Thinker & Activist), C.K. Prakash (Social Service & Progressive Farmer), Dr. Nagabhushan (Paediatrician), Uttam Raosaheb Patil (Youth Leader), M.A. Ananda (Educationist & Farmer), Dr. B.S. Prahallad (Engineer-in-Chief, BBMP), Kemparaj Kempegowda (Social Service), Hanumayya Bhimayya Guttedar (Youth Leader), Dr. Salman Patel (Health Service), Gaurav Kumar Deshmukh (Social Service), Krishnagowda V. Hulakoti (Progressive Farmer), Prof. S.Y. Chikkatti (Educationist), Vishwanath B. (Progressive Farmer), Khajahusen Gulagundi (Agriculture Entrepreneur), Mrs. Rajeshwari Manjunatha Pawadi (Social Service), and Lakshman L. (Farmer Leader). Their unwavering dedication and impactful work across science, social service, education, agriculture, health, and public leadership serve as a beacon of inspiration to the nation.
Zee Kannada News Editor Ravi S. concluded the event with heartfelt congratulations to all 35 awardees and expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and Zee staff who made the event a grand success. “This time, we have honoured achievers who have remained behind the scenes. Next, we aim to recognize young changemakers who are working towards the nation’s development through the Yuvaratna Awards,” he announced.