In a heartfelt celebration of Karnataka’s everyday heroes, Zee Kannada News hosted the grand edition of its prestigious Real Stars Awards 2025 at the Ashok Hotel in Bengaluru, felicitating 35 changemakers across diverse sectors for their selfless contributions to society.

The evening was marked by warmth, recognition, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the real stars working silently behind the scenes.

According to an official press release, the award ceremony was graced by several esteemed dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Legislative Council Basavaraj Horatti, who praised the awardees and Zee Kannada News for its continued effort to bring lesser-known achievers into the spotlight.

“Donning a shawl and garland does not mark the end of your service. Let this be the foundation for many more meaningful contributions to society,” he said, blessing the recipients on their continued journey of impact.

Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Tangadagi, who also addressed the gathering, lauded Zee Kannada News for maintaining a people-centric and farmer-friendly vision through their programming and events. In his speech, the Minister also expressed strong support for Kannada pride and said his department would write to key members of the Kannada film industry and the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce for a clarification from actor Kamal Haasan regarding recent remarks.

Citing the role of Dr. Rajkumar in the Gokak movement, he emphasized how the ‘Dodmane’ has always stood up for the Kannada language and identity.

Adding further grace to the evening were prominent personalities from the Kannada film fraternity, including veteran actress Tara Anuradha and noted producer Geetha Shivrajkumar. Former Deputy Chief Minister and current BJP MLA of Malleswaram, Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan, was also present and extended his heartfelt congratulations to the awardees, underlining the importance of celebrating the work done at the grassroots level.

Among the awardees were notable names such as Dr. A.S. Kiran Kumar, former ISRO Chairman; DRDO scientist Dr. Prahlada Ramarao; former cricketer Dodda Ganesh; educationists like Dr. B.R. Supreeth and Prof. S.Y. Chikkatti; spiritual leaders like Pujya Gurumurthy Guruji and public servants such as B.H. Anil Kumar and Dr. B.S. Prahallad. The list spanned visionaries from science, health, education, agriculture, arts, and social service—each one a testament to quiet determination and committed public spirit.

Editor of Zee Kannada News, Ravi S., closed the event with an emotional note, thanking the audience, the channel’s staff, and the dignitaries who helped make the event a success. “This time, we have honoured achievers who have remained behind the scenes. Next, we aim to recognize young changemakers who are working towards the nation’s development through the Yuvaratna Awards,” he announced, hinting at even bigger initiatives in the future.