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Kerala-born dancer Sunanda Nair receives India's highest arts honor
The acclaimed dancer, choreographer and educator has been honored with India's highest national recognition in the performing arts for her decades-long contribution to Mohiniattam.
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Ankita Baidya - Fri, 12, Jun 2026
- 03:16 EDT
- 25
Sunanda Nair has been awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India's highest honor in the performing arts, for her contributions to Mohiniattam. / Sunanda Nair Website
The Consulate General of India in Houston has congratulated acclaimed Mohiniattam dancer and educator Dr. Sunanda Nair on receiving the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India's highest national recognition for performing artists.
Nair was selected for the honor in recognition of her decades of dedication to preserving and promoting Mohiniattam, one of Kerala's classical dance traditions.
The award, presented by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, recognizes artists who have made significant and sustained contributions to India's performing arts. Established in 1952, it is regarded as the country's premier honor in the fields of music, dance and drama.
Widely respected as a performer, choreographer, scholar and teacher, Nair has spent decades advancing Mohiniattam both in India and internationally. Through performances, workshops, lecture demonstrations and mentorship, she has helped bring greater visibility to the classical dance form among audiences across the world.
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The recognition has been welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora and cultural organizations, including the Consulate General of India in Houston, which extended its congratulations following the announcement.
Over the course of her career, Nair has earned a reputation for combining artistic excellence with a commitment to education. Her work has played an important role in training younger generations of dancers while preserving the traditions and techniques that define Mohiniattam.
In addition to the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Nair has received several major honors, including the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award and the Kalarathnam title from Kerala Kalamandalam.
Mohiniattam, known for its graceful movements and expressive storytelling, originated in Kerala and is one of India's eight recognized classical dance forms. While deeply rooted in tradition, the art form has gained a growing international following through the efforts of performers and educators such as Nair.
For many in the Indian arts community, the honor reflects not only Nair's individual achievements but also the continued global relevance of India's classical traditions. As cultural institutions and diaspora communities work to preserve these art forms abroad, artists like Nair have served as important ambassadors, connecting audiences across generations and borders.
Her selection places her among a distinguished group of artists whose work has helped shape India's cultural landscape and ensure that its performing arts heritage continues to thrive in the 21st century.
Nair's career has also been recognized through numerous national and international honors. Her accolades include the Kalasree Award from the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, the Kalarathnam title from Kerala Kalamandalam, the Global Mannam Award from the Nair Service Society of North America, the Nrithya Seva Mani Award from the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival, and the Global Excellence Award for Performing Arts. She has also received recognition for her contributions to classical arts and community service in the United States, including honors from arts organizations in New Orleans and Missouri.
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