Question

87-year-old Ramlal Bareth, the only surviving Kathak Dancer of Raigarh court, was awarded with which of the following awards in 2024?

• A. Padma Vibhushan
• B. Sahitya Academy Award
• C. Padma Shri
• D. Padma Bhushan

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Padma Shri

Padma Shri Awardee Ramlal Bareth

Recognition for a Living Legend of Kathak

• Ramlal Bareth, an 87-year-old distinguished artist, was honored with the Padma Shri in 2024.
• He is celebrated as the sole surviving Kathak dancer associated with the esteemed Raigarh court.
• The Raigarh court was a significant patron of arts and culture, particularly Kathak, during its active period.

About the Padma Shri

• The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in India, instituted by the Government of India.
• It is awarded annually by the President of India as part of India's Republic Day honours.
• The award recognizes achievements in various fields, including arts, literature, education, sports, medicine, social work, and public affairs.
• Ramlal Bareth's award highlights the rich legacy of classical Indian dance forms and the importance of preserving traditional artistic lineages.

Kathak Dance - A Brief Overview

• Kathak is one of the eight major forms of Indian classical dance.
• Its origins are traced to the nomadic bards of ancient northern India, known as Kathakars or storytellers.
• The dance form developed in the courts of the Mughal emperors and later flourished under royal patronage, including in princely states like Raigarh.
• Key characteristics include intricate footwork (tatkar), rhythmic patterns (jhaptaal, teentaal), expressive storytelling (abhinaya), and graceful pirouettes (chakkars).