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Kuchipudi Maestro Honored, Revives Dance-Drama
22 Aug
Summary
- Dancer Veena Murthy Vijay received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2024.
- She aims to revive Kuchipudi's dance-drama tradition in Karnataka.
- Murthy Vijay encourages youth to pursue dance over digital entertainment.
Dr. Veena Murthy Vijay has been recognized with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Kuchipudi, presented by President Droupadi Murmu on August 13, 2024, in New Delhi. This honor coincides with the 50th anniversary of her Bengaluru-based dance school. Murthy Vijay is dedicated to revitalizing Kuchipudi's traditional dance-drama style across Karnataka, moving beyond the prevalent solo performances.
She advocates for deeper engagement with Kuchipudi's theatrical and Yakshagana roots, encouraging certificate and diploma courses. While embracing experimentation for younger dancers, Murthy Vijay stresses the importance of maintaining traditional pedagogy. Her mission extends to inspiring youth, seeing dance as a profound discipline for mind and spirit.
Murthy Vijay believes dance shapes personality and offers a sense of purpose, preferring to see young people actively dancing rather than passively consuming digital content. The award signifies an opportunity for her to give back to the art form that has profoundly influenced her life and career.
