Which iconic Bharatanatyam dancer and actress, known for her work in over 230 films, was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2025?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer: Shobana Chandrakumar Pillai.
Explanation:
- Honors: Veteran actress and Bharatanatyam danseuse Shobana was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2025 for her exceptional contributions to the field of arts.
- Career: Shobana has acted in over 230 films across various languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada. She has also won the National Film Award for Best Actress twice.
- Classical Dance: She is a renowned Bharatanatyam danseuse and has established a dance academy named 'Kalarpana' in Chennai. She is the niece of the famous 'Travancore Sisters' (Lalitha, Padmini, and Ragini).
Analysis of Other Options:
- Vyjayanthimala Bali: She was awarded the 'Padma Vibhushan' in 2024.
- Mallika Sarabhai: Renowned Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam danseuse (daughter of Mrinalini Sarabhai).
- Alarmel Valli: A leading exponent of the 'Pandanallur' style of Bharatanatyam.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
- Question: Who is the danseuse who won a National Award for the film 'Manichitrathazhu'?
- Answer: Shobana.
- Question: The Padma Bhushan is which-ranked civilian honor of India?
- Answer: The third (after the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan).
- Question: What is the name of the dance institute established by Shobana?
- Answer: Kalarpana.