Neha BaruahThe prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2024 will honor young, exceptional artists and will take place on November 22, 2024, at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The ceremony will be graced by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who will present the awards. The event will commence at 11 A.M., with Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, leading the proceedings. Smt. Uma Nanduri, the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, will also be in attendance.
About the Award
Established in 2006, the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar celebrates the legacy of the legendary Ustad Bismillah Khan. This annual award recognizes young artists under the age of 40 across various fields, including music, dance, drama, folk and tribal arts, and puppetry. Each awardee is presented with a cash prize of ₹25,000, a plaque, and an angavastram as a mark of recognition.
Objective of the Award
The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar seeks to inspire and motivate young talent, fostering the growth of performing arts in India. By honoring these emerging artists, the award promotes creativity, cultural expression, and the preservation of India’s rich artistic traditions.
Performing Arts Festival
In conjunction with the award presentation, a vibrant festival of performing arts will unfold from November 22 to 26, 2024. The festival will feature performances by the awardees and will take place across three iconic venues: Meghdoot Theatre Complex, Rabindra Bhawan, and Abhimanch Theatre at the National School of Drama.
Cultural Significance
This event underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating India’s cultural heritage. It provides a platform for young artists to showcase their talents and reinforces the pivotal role of the Sangeet Natak Akademi in nurturing and promoting the arts. The festival also serves as a beacon for emerging artists to gain recognition and contribute to the nation’s vibrant cultural landscape.
