Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
What is Sangeet Natak Akademi Award? The Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, also known as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar, is one of the most prestigious awards in India recognizing outstanding achievements in the fields of music, dance, and drama. It is conferred by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s National Academy for Music, Dance, and Drama, which was established in 1952 by the Government of India.
Key Details About the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
- Objective:
The award honors exceptional individuals for their significant contributions to the performing arts and for their efforts in preserving and promoting Indian cultural heritage. - Award Components:
- A citation describing the recipient’s achievements.
- A memento as a symbol of recognition.
- A cash prize (currently ₹1,00,000).
- Fields of Recognition:
Awards are given across a wide range of categories within the performing arts, including:- Music: Hindustani, Carnatic, and other traditional/folk music forms.
- Dance: Classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, and others.
- Theatre: Modern, traditional, and folk theatre forms.
- Puppetry and other related performing art forms.
- Eligibility:
- The recipient must have made significant contributions in their respective field of performing arts.
- The award typically honors lifetime achievement rather than a single performance or project.
- Special Categories:
- Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar: Introduced in 2006, this award is for young artists (under the age of 40) who show exceptional promise in the performing arts.
- Fellowships: Conferred as a mark of the highest honor to eminent individuals for their lifelong dedication to the arts.
- Frequency:
The awards are announced annually, and the ceremony is organized at a national level. - Significance:
The Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards hold immense cultural and national importance as they not only recognize individual excellence but also encourage the preservation and revival of traditional and folk art forms. - Award Ceremony:
The awards are presented by the President of India or a designated dignitary, usually at a grand function attended by eminent artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts.
Importance:
The Sangeet Natak Akademi Award is a testimony to the diversity and richness of India’s performing arts. By honoring artists, it helps sustain traditional practices, encourages innovation in the performing arts, and promotes the cultural heritage of India both nationally and internationally.