Pioneer News Service
Ranchi
Three artists from Jharkhand were honored at the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi award ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu personally presented the awards to the artists.
Guru Sushant Kumar Mahapatra, a Chhau mask artisan from Seraikela, was honored for his contributions to the fields of Chhau and traditional mask-making. Meanwhile, sisters Butan Devi and Somwari Devi from Bundu, Ranchi, received the award for keeping the traditional Nachni dance form alive.
A total of 115 artists from across the country were conferred with Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships and awards during this special investiture ceremony for the years 2024 and 2025. The event honored artists who have made significant contributions to various art forms.
The recognition received by these three artists from Jharkhand is considered a major achievement for the state’s rich folk and traditional art and culture.
After receiving the award, Guru Sushant Kumar Mahapatra dedicated the honor to his mentors. He stated that advancing the Chhau mask art of Seraikela is his life’s mission. He affirmed that he would continue to work tirelessly for the preservation and promotion of Chhau mask craftsmanship and Chhau dance. This honor has further elevated the profile of Seraikela’s traditional Chhau art at the national level.
Several Union Ministers, along with Sangeet Natak Akademi Chairperson Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Secretary Raju Das, and other dignitaries, were present at the ceremony.
