In the heart of Andhra Pradesh, where the Godavari River whispers tales of history, culture, and resilience, the city of Rajahmundry played host to a remarkable event that transcended borders and celebrated the essence of selfless service. The Latha Raja Foundation, a beacon of hope and philanthropy based in Hyderabad, brought its prestigious Sevaa Dharmik Awards to the cultural canvas of Rajahmundry. This event, held on the evening of Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Sri Aanam Kala Kendra, marked not just a recognition of service but the beginning of a transformative journey.
Latha Raja Foundation: A Legacy of Service
The Latha Raja Foundation, established in 2015 in memory of Smt. K. S. S. Latha, Director of Exotic Events, has been a driving force in promoting social education and knowledge dissemination. With a triannual initiative titled “Sevaa Dharmik Awards,” the foundation honors NGOs and philanthropists who selflessly serve society and humanity. What sets this foundation apart is not just the financial award bestowed upon these humanitarians but the sincere hope that publicizing their tales will inspire and encourage the broader public, especially the younger generation.
A Night of Distinguished Guests
The Sevaa Dharmik Awards in Rajahmundry were graced by a panel of esteemed Guests of Honour, adding an extra layer of prestige to the evening. Notable personalities like Smt. M. Chaya Ratan, IAS, former Special Chief Secretary of Combined AP, and Dr. Sandeep Pandey, a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, lent their presence to an event that aimed to celebrate and amplify the voices of those who serve society with distinction.
Awardees Who Define Service
The heart of the event lies in the recognition of individuals and organizations dedicated to making a tangible impact on society. The awardees were not just names on a list but stories of resilience, compassion, and transformative change.
Serve Needy, Hyderabad, Telangana
Founded by Goutham Kumar in 2014, Serve Needy focuses on aiding orphaned children, widowed ladies, mentally-challenged individuals, differently-abled people, and transgenders. Their impactful social welfare programs include ‘Annadatha,’ ‘Save a Life,’ and ‘Free Last Rites.’
Sridevi Charitable Trust, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Spearheaded by the prominent YouTuber Sridevi, this trust actively raises awareness on education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. Sridevi exemplifies the power of positive change through engaging videos showcasing hands-on involvement in charitable activities.
Super 30, Patna, Bihar
Founded by social reformer Anand Kumar, Super 30 selects and coaches 30 economically disadvantaged students annually for the IIT-JEE. The program offers free education and has garnered universal acclaim for transforming underprivileged lives.
Nammane Summane, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Initiated by transwoman Nakshatra in 2020, Nammane Summane extends shelter to LGBTQIA+ individuals, orphans, persons with HIV, and the differently-abled. Nakshatra’s journey of resilience propels the NGO’s mission to provide a safe haven for the marginalized.
A Journey Unfolds
As Rajahmundry witnessed the inaugural Sevaa Dharmik Awards event outside Hyderabad, it marked the beginning of a journey that aims to bring inspiring stories of philanthropy to every nook and corner of the Telugu states. The Latha Raja Foundation’s vision extends beyond borders, and in the future, they intend to host the event in other states, furthering the reach of their impactful recognition.
The Sevaa Dharmik Awards 2024 in Rajahmundry was not just an event; it was a celebration of the human spirit, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the enduring power of selfless service. The legacy of Smt. K. S. S. Latha lives on through the countless lives touched and transformed by these acts of kindness. Rajahmundry, with its rich cultural tapestry, added a new chapter to the story of philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who attended and the lives of those who were honored.
