Which Bharatanatyam dancer is the recipient of one of India’s top civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan 1977?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. T. Balasaraswati.
T. Balasaraswati, one of the greatest exponents of Bharatanatyam, was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1977, India’s second-highest civilian award. She is widely credited with bringing Bharatanatyam out of the temples and into mainstream performance spaces while preserving its spiritual and emotional depth. Born into a traditional family of musicians and dancers, Balasaraswati was admired for her expressive abhinaya (facial expressions) and deep understanding of Carnatic music, which accompanied her performances. Her work was instrumental in reviving and legitimizing Bharatanatyam as a respected classical art form in modern India and on international platforms.
Other options :
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Yamini Krishnamurthy: A celebrated Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi dancer, but not the 1977 Padma Vibhushan awardee.
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Kelucharan Mohapatra: A legendary Odissi dancer, not associated with Bharatanatyam.
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Mallika Sarabhai: A renowned dancer and activist, but did not receive the Padma Vibhushan in 1977.