Music composer Ilaiyaraaja, athlete legend P T Usha, philanthropist Veerendra Heggade and screenwriter-director V Vijayendra Prasad were Wednesday nominated as Rajya Sabha members.
The four nominated representatives represent four South Indian states.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted congratulatory messages following the nominations.
Lauding Ilaiyaraaja, Modi said: “The creative genius of @ilaiyaraaja Ji has enthralled people across generations. His works beautifully reflect many emotions. What is equally inspiring is his life journey- he rose from a humble background and achieved so much. Glad that he has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha.”
He also praised PT Usha saying she is an inspiration for every Indian.
He said: “The remarkable PT Usha Ji is an inspiration for every Indian. Her accomplishments in sports are widely known but equally commendable is her work to mentor budding athletes over the last several years. Congratulations to her on being nominated to the Rajya Sabha.”
According to PM Modi, Dharmadhikari of the Dharmasthala Temple, Veerendra Heggade, will “enrich Parliamentary proceedings.”
“Shri Veerendra Heggade Ji is at the forefront of outstanding community service. I have had the opportunity to pray at the Dharmasthala Temple and also witness the great work he is doing in health, education and culture. He will certainly enrich Parliamentary proceedings,” PM Modi said.
About screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad, Modi said “…His works showcase India’s glorious culture and have made a mark globally. Congratulations to him for being nominated to the Rajya Sabha.”
