Scheme of Awarding Porkizhi to the Indigent Kalaimamani Awardee Artists
Art and Culture Department of Tamil Nadu continues the Porkizhi scheme for indigent Kalaimamani awardee artists, offering ₹1 lakh per eligible beneficiary each year. The Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram is conducting the annual selection process for this support.
Three Kalaimamani awardee artists who are in indigent circumstances receive this cash benefit every year. It helps them cover their living expenses when they do not have sufficient income to manage on their own.
Porkizhi Award for Indigent Kalaimamani Artists
The Porkizhi award is a cash benefit for Kalaimamani awardee artists living in indigent conditions. This annual scheme is managed by the Art and Culture Department and carried out through the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram. The programme supports elderly artists who have served Tamil arts but are now facing money problems.
In September 2023, Chief Minister MK Stalin distributed ₹1 lakh (porkizhi) each to 10 senior Kalaimamani awardees living in indigent circumstances. A similar distribution of Rs 1 lakh each to 10 artistes took place in February 2025 as well. The assistance is being extended on behalf of the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram.
Eligibility
Artists can check if they qualify under these conditions:
- You must be a recognised artist who has received the Kalaimamani Award.
- Your age should be 58 years or above.
- Your annual income must not exceed ₹12,000. For example, if someone earns ₹10,000 a year, they qualify, but if another person earns ₹15,000 or more, they do not.
- You should be currently living in indigent (financial hardship) circumstances.
The scheme is limited to artists from Tamil Nadu only. Artists from other states are not eligible.
How to Apply
The application process is offline. Keep an eye on local newspapers for the advertisement released by the Manram.
STEP 1 - Visit the office of the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram during working hours. Speak with the designated staff to collect your application form.
STEP 2 - Fill in all required details in the form carefully. Gather your supporting documents and make sure you self-attest copies where necessary.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed and signed application to the Member Secretary, Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram, Ponni, 31, P.S. Kumarasamy Raja Salai, Chennai-600 028.
STEP 4 - Always ask for a formal receipt or acknowledgement. Make sure the receipt includes the submission date, time, and any reference number given by the staff.
Required Documents
Keep the following documents ready before you apply:
- Valid Age Proof or Birth Certificate.
- Official Income Certificate.
- Documentary proof showing you have previously received the Kalaimamani Award.
- Any additional supporting documents as requested by the department.
Scheme at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Scheme of Awarding Porkizhi to the Indigent Kalaimamani Awardee Artists |
| Level | State |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Nodal Department | Art and Culture Department |
| Implementing Agency | Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| Benefit Amount | ₹1 lakh per artist |
| Target Applicants | Indigent Kalaimamani awardee artists |
| Application Mode | Offline |
| Application Frequency | Annual |
The official guidelines for this scheme are available in the Department of Art and Culture handbook.
References
Official Guidelines - Department of Art and Culture Handbook
The Hindu - Stalin distributes cash award of ₹1 lakh each to Kalaimamani awardees, September 2023
FAQ's
Who implements the Porkizhi award scheme?
The Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram implements this scheme.
What is the amount provided?
The scheme provides a cash benefit of ₹1 lakh to each eligible Kalaimamani awardee artist facing financial difficulties.
Who is eligible to receive this support?
Only artists who have previously received the Kalaimamani Award, are 58 years or above, have an annual income under ₹12,000, and are living in indigent circumstances qualify.
How many artists benefit from this?
Three Kalaimamani awardee artists in financial need are selected to receive this support each year.
How are artists selected for the award?
The selection is done during the General Council Meeting of the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram, where age and income criteria are carefully reviewed. The finalised beneficiaries receive the Porkizhi amount during the Kalaimamani award function.
Is there a purpose for the funding?
The grant is meant to give financial support to artists dealing with money problems.
Can artists from other states apply?
No, this scheme is only for Kalaimamani awardee artists residing in Tamil Nadu.
Do I need the Kalaimamani award to apply?
Yes, having received the Kalaimamani award is a must to be eligible.
Can I use the funds for personal needs?
Yes, the financial support is meant to help you meet your personal expenses and basic needs.
Is the award amount taxable?
Tax implications depend on your individual financial profile. You should consult a tax professional for guidance.
Can I apply again in the future?
Yes, if you continue to face financial hardship, you may be eligible to apply in later years as well.
How does this help my welfare?
It gives a direct money buffer to help you cover your basic requirements.
Do I need to prove my financial status?
Yes, you must provide valid income documentation to verify your financial standing.
Is this an annual scheme?
Yes, the scheme runs each year to support deserving awardees.