Dublin-based artist honored for contributions to art, literature, culture, and society
Raju Kunnakkad has been awarded the Dr. Ambedkar Sahitya Shri National Award for 2025 in recognition of his comprehensive contributions to art, literature, culture, and society. The award will be presented in Delhi on December 12, organizers announced.
This marks the twelfth award for Kunnakkad and represents his first national-level honor, elevating recognition of his artistic work beyond regional and community acknowledgments.
Kunnakkad gained prominence for writing the popular Bible dramascope play “Oliv Marangal Sakshi” by Kottayam Mattoli, which earned him recognition across multiple fields and established his reputation as a significant cultural contributor.
His previous honors include the Pravasi Ratna Award, Rajan P. Dev Award, Thoppil Bhasi Award, Aranmula Satyavrathan Award, Shankhumudra Award, Ireland Mind Icon Award, World Malayali Council Belfast Kala Ratna Award, World Malayali Council Europe Sahitya Ratna Award, Cork World Malayali Council Adharav Award, Thiruvananthapuram Navaprathibha Suvarna Jyothis Award, Trivandrum Vedi to Vedi Drama Award, Trivandrum Samskara Sahitya Vedi Award, and Maithri Sahitya Vedi’s First Kala Ratna Award.
The Dr. Ambedkar Sahitya Shri National Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to literature and cultural preservation, honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy of promoting education, social justice, and cultural advancement.
Kunnakkad’s recognition reflects the growing visibility of diaspora artists contributing to Indian cultural expression while based abroad. His work in drama, literature, and cultural activities has strengthened connections between Ireland’s Indian-origin community and broader Indian artistic traditions.
The December 12 presentation in Delhi will bring national attention to Kunnakkad’s body of work and the vibrant cultural activities of Indian-origin communities in Ireland.