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Jay Salian - Kalashree Prashasti

March 21, 2026

In a grand celebration of heritage and artistic excellence, the Kannadiga Kalavidara Parishat, Maharashtra (R) conferred the prestigious “Appi Shetty Memorial Kalashree Prashasti” upon acclaimed artist Jay Salian today. The award ceremony was a highlight of the organization’s 17th Annual Samskrutika Kala Mahotsava, held to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Kannada culture outside its home state.

Award Ceremony Highlights
The event took place amidst a vibrant gathering of art enthusiasts, cultural leaders, and members of the Kannadiga diaspora in Maharashtra.

Honoree: Jay Salian, a Mumbai-based artist and educator known for his emotive pencil drawings and international exhibitions, was recognized for his lifelong dedication to the arts.

The Award: The “Appi Shetty Memorial Kalashree Prashasti” serves as a tribute to the late Appi Shetty, a figure synonymous with cultural service, and carries forward his legacy by rewarding modern-day artistic brilliance.

 

Organizer: The Kannadiga Kalavidara Parishat, Maharashtra (R), a prominent body dedicated to fostering Kannada drama, literature, and art, organized the gala as part of its ongoing mission to support regional talent in the Mumbai metropolitan region and beyond.

 

Celebrating a “Kalashree”
Jay Salian’s selection for the award follows a string of recent international and state-level successes. Earlier in March 2026, Salian was a featured artist at the “Red Raven – Painting Dreams” exhibition in SoHo, New York. His work, often capturing the essence of Indian tradition—such as his acclaimed sketches of Yakshagana performers—has bridged the gap between traditional themes and contemporary global art platforms.

 

Samskrutika Kala Mahotsava
The 17th Annual Samskrutika Kala Mahotsava featured a diverse array of programs, including:


Drama Performances: Showcasing the rich theatrical tradition of Karnataka.

 

Artistic Workshops: Engaging the younger generation of Kannadigas in Maharashtra to learn traditional art forms.

 

Cultural Exchange: Providing a platform for regional artists to network and showcase their crafts to a wider audience.

The Parishat continues to be a cornerstone for the community, ensuring that the spirit of Kannada culture remains vibrant through its regular hosting of such high-profile cultural events and support for local talent.