Coimbatore: R Lakshmipathy, joint managing editor of Tamil daily Dinamalar, was conferred the 'Dharma Ratna' award at a function held at the Kothanda Ram Temple here on Saturday.

The ceremony marked the conclusion of a two-month religious observance by Pujya Sri Sachidananda Theertha Swamigal of Sri Chakra Maha Meru Peetham, Chhattisgarh.

City Union Bank Managing Director Kamakoti, Executive Director Vijayanand, Sridevi Textiles Managing Director Sivaganesh and Krishna Sweets Managing Director Krishnan were presented the 'Dharma Raksha Sironmani' award.

Swamigal urged devotees to uphold Sanatana Dharma and said the honours recognised contributions in spiritual and religious service. He also lauded Dinamalar for publishing spiritual news.

Accepting the award on behalf of his grandfather, R Ramkumar said the honour was significant as it coincided with Dinamalar's 75th anniversary.