Internationally famous music director A.R. Rahman was presented with the 7th Yesudas award by Swaralaya in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.

The presentation ceremony which was held at the Nishagandhi open-air auditorium was attended by eminent cultural figures of Malayalam.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs. 1 Lakh, a citation and a statuette designed by famous sculptor, Kanayi Kunhiraman.

Yesudas, speaking on the occasion, appreciated the multiple talents of Rahman and acknowledged him as the best of his times. He added that A.R. Rahman's manifestation of talent is the result of his long struggle and unstinting hard work.

Rahman after receiving the award remembered his olden days when he worked under noted music director Arjunan Master at a salary of Rs. 50.  Rahman opined that he is overwhelmed to received the award and said that Yesudas' is his most favorite voice.