Which Ummathat folk dancer was awarded the Padma Shri in March 2023?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Rani Machaiah.
Rani Machaiah, a celebrated folk dancer renowned for her mastery of the Ummathat folk dance (a traditional Codava art form), was conferred the Padma Shri in March 2023 for her significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Kodava cultural heritage. Her lifelong dedication has included founding the dance troupe Kaveri Kala Vrinda, training thousands of students, and elevating Ummathat from its rural origins in Coorg to national prominence through performances across India.