Shillong: The Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya, Shri C.H. Vijayashankar, was conferred the prestigious Kaveri Prashasthi Award in a grand ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Shillong.
The award, named after the sacred River Kaveri, is presented annually by Chandravana Ashrama, Srirangapatna, to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to public life and social service. Previous recipients include Padma Shri Saalu Marada Thimmakka, Sulagitti Narasamma, Sri Sri Ravishankarji, and ISRO scientist Kiran Kumar.
The event was graced by His Holiness Dr. Sri Sri Trinetra Mahantha Shivayogi Swamiji, head of Chandravana Ashrama, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, and Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahmmed.
The ceremony began with a traditional lamp-lighting and cultural performances, including Bharatanatyam, Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia dances, and musical presentations by ICCR and EFLU.
Congratulating the Governor, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the award as recognition of Shri Vijayashankar’s humility, leadership, and lifelong dedication to public service.
In his address, the Governor expressed gratitude to His Holiness Swamiji and said the award holds deep symbolic meaning, as the River Kaveri represents purity, life, and selfless giving. He added that though Meghalaya is far from the Kaveri’s banks, its clean rivers and green hills reflect the same spirit of harmony and service.
His Holiness Swamiji blessed the gathering with a message on compassion, unity, and service for humanity.
The event concluded with the formal presentation of the award, marking a day of reverence and celebration of the values of spirituality, culture, and human welfare that the Kaveri Prashasthi Award stands for.