News n Pics : Anand Kumar Barkur
Udupi, November 1, 2025 – In a fitting recognition of decades of dedicated service to traditional art forms, Shrikant Acharya, a distinguished metal embossed sculpture artist from the historic village of Barkur in Brahmavara Taluk, Udupi District, has been selected to receive the prestigious Udupi District Kannada Rajyotsava Award.
The award ceremony will take place today at Ajjarkad, Udupi, during the Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations, in the presence of District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar and other distinguished dignitaries.
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
Shrikant Acharya, son of the late Vitthala Acharya, hails from Barakuru Kalluchappara, a region known for its rich cultural heritage. Over the years, he has established himself as a master craftsman specializing in the intricate art of metal embossed sculpture, working with precious metals including gold, silver, and brass.
His exceptional craftsmanship has adorned numerous temples and divine shrines across Karnataka and even in foreign countries. His portfolio of work includes the creation of elaborate prabhaavalis (ornamental arches), pallakis (palanquins), decorative metalwork surrounding the garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum), and various types of metal kavacha (protective ornamental covers) for deities.
Commitment to Skill Development
Beyond his personal artistic achievements, Acharya has demonstrated a profound commitment to preserving and propagating this traditional art form. For many years, he has served as the President of the Vishwa Brahman Shilpa Kala Sangha (World Brahmin Artisan Association), using this platform to mentor and train numerous young people in sculpture and metalwork.
His efforts in providing vocational training have enabled many youth to establish themselves in self-employment, ensuring that these ancient crafts continue to thrive in modern times. This dedication to creating livelihood opportunities through traditional arts has been one of his most significant contributions to society.
Recognition and Honors
Acharya's artistic excellence and social service have not gone unnoticed. Various organizations and institutions have previously recognized his contributions to art and culture, honoring him with multiple awards and citations over the years.
The Udupi District Kannada Rajyotsava Award represents the culmination of this recognition at the district level, acknowledging not just his artistic mastery but also his role in preserving Karnataka's cultural heritage and empowering the next generation of artisans.
True Honor for Art
As noted by well-wishers and art enthusiasts, this award represents "true honor for art" (kalege sanda nijavada gaurava) – a genuine recognition of the value that traditional craftsmanship and dedication bring to society.
The Kannada Rajyotsava, celebrated annually on November 1st to mark the formation of Karnataka state, provides a fitting occasion to honor individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the state's cultural fabric. Shrikant Acharya's selection for this honor underscores the continued relevance and importance of traditional metal sculpture arts in contemporary Karnataka.
The ceremony at Ajjarkad today will celebrate not just one artist's journey, but the enduring legacy of Karnataka's rich artistic traditions.
