Desh Ratna Anuradha Ray - Anuradha Ray Honoured with Desh Ratna Award for Excellence in Kathak

Renowned Kathak exponent Anuradha Ray has been conferred with the prestigious Desh Ratna Award 2025 by the Bharti Yuva Welfare Association, New Delhi, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Indian classical dance, particularly Kathak of the Jaipur Gharana.

Anuradha began her journey in the world of Kathak in 2001. With dedication and deep respect for the art form, she has trained under legendary gurus such as Pt. Rajendra Gangani Ji, Vidushi Shama Bhate Ji, Monisha Nayak, and Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Deshkar. Her learning is enriched by both classical tradition and modern pedagogy, allowing her to shape a dynamic career as both a professional performer and dance educator.

She holds a Master’s degree in Kathak from Prayag Sangeet Samiti and has also completed the Madhyama Poorna from Akhil Bhartiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, Mumbai. In addition, she pursued a Certificate Course in Kathak under Guru Shama Bhate Ji and has attended intensive workshops conducted by Pt. Rajendra Gangani Ji, Shama Bhate Ji, and Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji.

Anuradha’s performance résumé is vast, with appearances at national festivals like the 16th Cuttack Mahotsav 2025, Sri Krishna Kala Sanskritik Mahotsav (Mathura), Srijan 2 (Gwalior), Asha Festival (Kolkata), and Nrutyadarpan (Jaipur), among many others.

Her excellence has earned her numerous accolades, including:

Nrityangana Award (Nrityanjali, New Delhi)

Nritya Shiromani Award 2024 (Kathak Vidya Niketan, Gwalior)

Multiple Guru Samman Awards (2023–2024) from reputed organizations

Nritya Vibhushan Title (ANASS, 2022)

Several Best Choreography Awards in national and school-level competitions

Beyond performing, Anuradha is a respected judge, having adjudicated major competitions such as the All India National Dance Competition (2023) in Gwalior and events at Indira Gandhi Technical University for Women and Modern School, Vaishali.

With a vibrant blend of performance, pedagogy, and passion, Anuradha Ray continues to inspire the next generation of dancers and preserve the rich legacy of Indian classical dance. Her recognition with the Desh Ratna Award is a testament to her relentless dedication and remarkable contribution to the cultural fabric of India.