Question

Which Ummathat folk dancer was awarded the Padma Shri in March 2023?

• A. Vani Jairam
• B. Suman Kalyanpur
• C. Subhadra Devi
• D. Rani Machaiah

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Rani Machaiah

Rani Machaiah - Padma Shri Awardee

• Rani Machaiah, a renowned exponent of the Ummathat folk dance, was honored with the Padma Shri in March 2023.
• This award recognizes her significant contributions to preserving and promoting the traditional art form of Kodagu (Coorg).

About Ummathat Dance

• Ummathat is a traditional folk dance form primarily performed by women in the Kodagu district of Karnataka.
• It is characterized by its graceful movements, rhythmic clapping, and often performed during festivals and cultural celebrations.
• The dance typically involves women singing and dancing in a circle, accompanied by instruments like the chenda (a drum).
• The attire for the dance is usually a traditional Kodava saree, draped in a specific style.

Padma Shri Award

• The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in India, awarded by the Government of India.
• It is given for distinguished service in various fields, including arts, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.
• The award was instituted in 1954.