New Delhi: The President of India Ram Nath Kovind Wednesday conferred Sangeet Natak Akademi awards on three reputed artistes for their valuable contributions to different art forms.
The awards were conferred Wednesday at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here in a grand ceremony where nominees from across the country were facilitated.
The three distinguished awardees include-Odissi Guru Ratikant Mohapatra, theatre director Satyabrata Rout and Pala Singer Laxmidhar Rout.
Addressing the gathering, Kovind said, “Art connects people with culture. It also links people. While singing or listening to the national anthem, every citizen rises above his/her personal aspirations. Artistes should use this power of art in the interest of our society and country,”
The Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Fellowships and Awards are recognised as among the most coveted national honours bestowed on performing artistes as well as teachers and scholars of performing arts.
PNN