Legendary dancer and choreographer Uday Shankar was honoured as the first recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Creative Dance, marking a turning point in the recognition of modern Indian dance forms. The award, presented in 1960, acknowledged Shankar’s pioneering role in blending Indian classical and folk traditions with contemporary expression.
Shankar’s innovative vision not only reshaped Indian dance but also brought global attention to the country’s cultural heritage. His contribution was further celebrated in 1962, when he was conferred the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, the Akademi’s highest honour.
Recognized as the father of modern Indian dance, Uday Shankar’s legacy was immortalized once again in 1971, when he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award.
