SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 11

SSC Stenographer - 15 Sep 2026 - Shift 1 • General Awareness • Q11

Rukmini Devi Arundale is remembered for reviving which traditional Indian art form and integrating it into modern education?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

Solution: The correct answer is Bharatanatyam.
Explanation:
☛ Rukmini Devi Arundale was an eminent Indian classical dancer and choreographer who played a pivotal role in reviving and popularizing Bharatanatyam.
☛ She transformed the dance form from its traditional temple-associated form, originally known as Sadir or Sadir Attam, and gave it global recognition and social respectability.
☛ In 1936, she founded the prestigious Kalakshetra Foundation in Chennai (Adyar) to integrate classical arts with modern education.
☛ She was also the first woman in Indian history to be nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1952.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Honours: She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1956 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship in 1967.
☛ Animal Welfare: She served as the first chairperson of the Animal Welfare Board of India, established in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
☛ Kathak: A classical dance of Northern India, associated with maestros like Pandit Birju Maharaj and Sitara Devi.
☛ Manipuri: A classical dance form of Manipur, traditionally based on Raasleela, popularized by exponents such as Guru Bipin Singh and the Jhaveri sisters.
☛ Odissi: An ancient classical dance form of Odisha, revived significantly by legendary guru Kelucharan Mohapatra.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ In which year did Rukmini Devi Arundale establish the Kalakshetra academy? → 1936
☛ Who was the first woman to be nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha? → Rukmini Devi Arundale
☛ What was the traditional historical name of Bharatanatyam before its revival? → Sadir (or Sadir Attam)
☛ Rukmini Devi Arundale played a key role in the formation of which animal welfare body in 1962? → Animal Welfare Board of India
☛ Which state is the classical dance form Bharatanatyam traditionally associated with? → Tamil Nadu