Bhadradri Kothagudem, Oct.18 : The Sri Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum’ Kolatam troupe from Sarapaka in Bhadradri Kothagudem district has achieved national recognition, having been selected for the ‘Bharatiya Kolatam Kala Ratna National Award-2026.’ Organized by the Bahujan Sahitya Academy, the prestigious presentation ceremony will take place in New Delhi on November 15, honouring the troupe’s contributions to preserving traditional folk dance art.
International President of the Bahujan Sahitya Academy, Nalla Radhakrishna, handed over the formal selection letters to the team at the academy’s national office in Hyderabad. The Sarapaka, based troupe was also selected to perform a special live Kolatam demonstration at the national event, which will bring together folk artists from 28 states and delegates from eight countries.
Under the guidance and mentorship of guru Tokala Ramesh, the troupe has trained numerous artists to promote classical folk traditions and empower women performers. Expressing delight over the recognition, local art enthusiasts and residents noted that receiving a national honor in the national capital will inspire folk artists across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to keep traditional art forms alive.
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