The Rajyotsava awards are the highest civilian awards presented by the state of Karnataka. The award was instituted in 1966 by the then Chief Minister K.C. Reddy to honour the achievements and contributions of people to the state of Karnataka. The awards are given to individuals who have excelled in various fields, such as art, literature, science, public service, sports, and so on, and have helped to promote the progress and prosperity of the state.

The awards are conferred on and presented to the awardees at a special ceremony held on the occasion of the birthday of Karnataka, November 1, which is celebrated as “Karnataka Rajyotsava”. The awardees are given a medal and a citation that mentions their contribution to the state and the nation.

The award is given in seven different categories, namely, Rajyotsava Prashasti, Rajyotsava Award, Rajyotsava Kannada Sahitya Prashasti, Rajyotsava Sharada Prashasti, Rajyotsava Nrupathunga Award, Rajyotsava Puraskara and Rajyotsava Nadoja Award. Each of these awards carries with it a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakh. The awards are given to eminent personalities who have made outstanding contributions to the state in various fields such as literature, arts, culture, social service, public administration, education, sports, and public life. 

The medal is made of gold and bears the image of Karnataka’s first Chief Minister, K.C. Reddy, and the state’s emblem, the gandaberunda, the two-headed bird. The citation is written in Sanskrit and reads as follows: “Awarded to (name of the awardee) for his/her/their contribution to promoting the progress of Karnataka state and the nation”.

The awardees receive a certificate of appreciation from the Chief Minister and a cash award of Rs. 25,000. Recipients of the award are also given a special state honour.

Over the years, the Rajyotsava awards have been presented to some of the most distinguished personalities of the state, including eminent literary figures, scientists, scholars, sportspersons, bureaucrats, and even social activists. The awardees are chosen by a committee that consists of members of the cultural, literary, and scientific communities of the state.

Rajyotsava Awards are a great way to recognize the hard work and dedication of the citizens of Karnataka. The award has been an inspiration for many individuals to strive harder and excel in their fields. The award encourages citizens to be more involved in the development of their state, thereby helping to strengthen the bond between Karnataka and its citizens.