Noted Odia writer Prafulla Das was today honoured with the prestigious Sarala Award for 2014 for his contribution to literature.
The award comprising cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh and a citation was presented to Das by lyricist, poet and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar in recognition of his book 'Bahnimana' and his overall contribution to Odia literature.
Odissi classical and devotional singer Shymamani Devi and famous artist Siba Panigrahi were also honoured at the function for their contribution in their respective fields.
Both the artistes were presented a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh and a citation each.
The Annual Sarala Award was instituted in 1979 by Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT). IMPaCT is the charitable wing of IMFA Group, the leading and the only fully integrated producer of ferro alloys in India.
Sarala Award is recognised as the foremost literary award of Odisha. The Ekalabya Award also instituted by IMPaCT crowns promising sport talents of Odisha.
