Kuchipudi Exponent Veena Murthy Vijay Honoured With Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
Bengaluru/New Delhi, August 16, 2026: Eminent Kuchipudi dancer and exponent Veena Murthy Vijay has been honoured with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (Akademi Puraskar) for 2024, recognising her contribution and excellence in the classical dance tradition.
President Droupadi Murmu presented the honour to Veena Murthy Vijay at a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on August 13.
Recognition for Kuchipudi
Veena Murthy Vijay has been recognised for her sustained contribution to preserving, promoting and enriching Kuchipudi, one of India's major classical dance traditions.
Her work has contributed to the continued propagation of the art form and helped strengthen its cultural presence among wider audiences.
National Honour
The Sangeet Natak Akademi Award recognises distinguished practitioners who have made significant contributions to India's performing arts.
The honour acknowledges Veena Murthy Vijay's artistic excellence, dedication to Kuchipudi and efforts to promote the classical dance form.
Contribution to Cultural Heritage
Her recognition also highlights the importance of preserving India's traditional performing arts and ensuring that classical dance forms continue to reach new generations.
The award adds to the national recognition of Kuchipudi and its practitioners who have worked to sustain the form's artistic and cultural legacy.
