Telugu expat in Qatar wins South Icon Award at SIGTA 2024 in Qatar

Published: 08 January 2025

A Telugu expat in Qatar has been honoured with the South Icon (Andhra Pradesh) Award at the SOUTH INDIAN GLOBAL TALENT ACHIEVERS (SIGTA) AWARDS 2024 ceremony held in Doha recently.

Venkappa Bhagavatula won the award for his contributions to the Telugu and Indian community in Qatar and also at a global level.

“The South Icon Award is one of the most coveted honours at the SIGTA event given to those individuals who excel in their fields for significant and groundbreaking contributions to their community by upholding and promoting the rich cultural heritage and ethical values of their motherland abroad as an NRI,” a press release said.

The ceremony, which took place at the Al Mayasa Theater, QNCC, was attended by an audience of 2,500, including prominent celebrities from Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Telugu film industries and influential personalities from various fields, who gathered to recognize outstanding achievements of South Indian talent in Qatar.

Mr. Venkappa Bhagavatula, known for his exceptional work in promoting telugu language, arts, culture, heritage, and social services, was selected for this prestigious award based on his significant impact both in local and international community.  His dedication to excellence, leadership, and commitment to advancing community service has garnered him extensive admiration.

While expressing his gratitude, he stated, “I consider receiving the ‘South Icon (Andhra Pradesh)’ award as a matter of great pride and honor. This recognition has increased my sense of responsibility further.” He extended his heartfelt thanks to the SIGTA executive committee and jury members for the prestigious award. “This recognition is dedicated to everyone who has supported me on my journey. I dedicate this award to my family, Andhra Kala Vedika executive committee, my friends and well-wishers who inspire me, and the Telugu community in Qatar,” he added.