Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s premier institution for Music, Dance, and Drama, was set up in 1953 by the Government of India. It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, is committed to promoting and preserving the diverse and rich heritage of India’s performing arts.
Vision and Objectives
The Akademi was created to:
- Develop and promote the practice and appreciation of Indian folk and classical performing arts.
- Support research and documentation of traditional art forms.
- Reward excellence in the areas of music, dance, and drama.
- Promote cultural exchange and consciousness through performance and festivals.
Major Activities
- The Akademi involves a variety of activities, including:
- Organizing international and national festivals, seminars, and workshops.
- Operating training programmes in folk and classical arts.
- Supporting institutions and individuals involved in performing arts.
- Publishing books, audio-visuals, and research studies on traditional and contemporary arts.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards
One of the highest honors for India’s performing artists, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award is awarded to individuals every year for their outstanding contribution towards:
- Classical and modern dance styles such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, etc.
- Hindustani and Carnatic music
- Theatre arts involving playwriting, direction, and acting
- Folk, tribal, and traditional arts
