Celebrating the spirit of young achievers across Karnataka, Zee Kannada News successfully hosted the prestigious Yuvarathna Awards 2025 in Bengaluru. With a powerful theme of recognising extraordinary contributions from ordinary individuals, the event shone a spotlight on 50 young trailblazers making a difference in entrepreneurship, arts, sports, healthcare, agriculture, social service and politics.

As per a press release issued by Zee Kannada News, the initiative was aimed at celebrating the youth who are shaping the future of Karnataka and inspiring others through their perseverance, vision and service.

The event was graced by several dignitaries including Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader, Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda and former Minister and MLC C.T. Ravi, alongside stalwarts from the Kannada film industry, further elevating the occasion.

In his keynote, Khader underlined the power of unity and praised the channel’s effort in bringing to light such committed youth. “By acknowledging these sincere, skilled, and committed individuals from every corner of the state, Zee Kannada News inspires a movement of hope and harmony,” he said.

Reddy lauded the platform’s commitment to recognising homegrown excellence, while Sadananda Gowda remarked, “This act of honouring 50 achievers is like saluting all the seven crore Kannadigas.” Echoing this sentiment, Ravi added, “With achievers like you, the Prime Minister’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat is within reach.”

Among the 50 awardees were names like Dr. B. Nagaraj, Veerabhadra Achari K.M., C.M. Shabaz Khan, Dr. Yuvasakthi Soori, Karuna Jain, Dr. S. Manjunath, and Akash Managuli, each of whom stood out for their excellence, integrity, and impact in their respective fields. The awardees represented the diverse and resilient spirit of Karnataka — from healthcare heroes and grassroots innovators to social reformers and rising artists.

Adding a personal touch to the occasion, Pushpa Arun Kumar, mother of actor Yash, praised the youth being honoured and highlighted the importance of supporting farmers. Veteran actress Sudharani appreciated the platform for recognising changemakers working selflessly for social upliftment. Actor Kichcha Sudeep, though not physically present, sent a warm video message encouraging the awardees to continue dreaming big and giving back to society. Actors Ajay Rao, Yuvarajkumar, and Chikkanna also graced the stage to applaud the achievements of the young awardees.

Ravi S, Editor of Zee Kannada News, summed up the evening in his heartfelt address, stating, “Each awardee is a beacon of hope for Karnataka. By bringing their stories to light, we aim to remind every Kannadiga that true change begins with ordinary people doing extraordinary work.”

Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO of Zee Media Corporation Limited, echoed the editorial vision by adding, “Journalism is not just about reporting, it’s about nation-building. The Yuvarathna Awards stand as a testament to Zee Kannada News’ mission of amplifying voices of courage and conviction.”