Renowned Bharatanatyam Dancer Yamini Krishnamurthy Passes Away at 83
Introduction
The world of Indian classical dance has lost one of its most luminous stars, as Yamini Krishnamurthy, a celebrated exponent of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, passed away in New Delhi at the age of 83. Her demise marks the end of an era in classical dance, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of dancers and art lovers alike.
1. About Yamini Krishnamurthy
- Early Life:
- Yamini Krishnamurthy was born on December 20, 1940, in Madanapalli, located in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district. She was born into a family deeply rooted in scholarship, as her father, M. Krishnamurti, was a renowned Sanskrit scholar.
- Introduction to Dance:
- She began her dance training at the tender age of five at the prestigious Kalakshetra School of Dance in Chennai, under the tutelage of the legendary Bharatanatyam dancer Rukmini Devi Arundale. This early start laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career in Indian classical dance.
- Mastery of Dance Forms:
- In addition to Bharatanatyam, Yamini Krishnamurthy was also proficient in Kuchipudi, and she expanded her repertoire by learning Odissi from eminent gurus like Pankaj Charan Das and Kelucharan Mohapatra. Her versatility and dedication to her art were evident as she mastered multiple dance forms with grace and precision.
- Beyond dance, she was also trained in Carnatic vocals and the veena, showcasing her deep engagement with the broader spectrum of Indian classical arts.
- Role and Contributions:
- Yamini Krishnamurthy’s contributions to the world of dance were recognized early on, and she was appointed as the Asthana Nartaki (resident dancer) of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, a prestigious role that highlighted her prominence in the field.
- In 1995, she chronicled her journey and passion for dance in her autobiography, “A Passion For Dance,” offering insights into her life, struggles, and achievements.
2. Awards and Honors
- Yamini Krishnamurthy’s contributions to Indian classical dance were recognized with numerous prestigious awards:
- Padma Shri: At the young age of 28, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 1968, making her one of the youngest recipients of the award at that time.
- Padma Bhushan: In 2001, she was honored with the Padma Bhushan, further cementing her status as a leading figure in the arts.
- Padma Vibhushan: The highest civilian award she received was the Padma Vibhushan in 2016, recognizing her lifelong dedication and contribution to Indian classical dance.
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award: In 1977, she was conferred the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, one of the highest honors for performing artists in India, acknowledging her excellence and influence in the world of dance.
Conclusion
Yamini Krishnamurthy’s passing is a profound loss to the cultural landscape of India. As a dancer who transcended the boundaries of Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Odissi, she embodied the richness and diversity of Indian classical dance. Her legacy will continue to live on through her performances, her students, and the many lives she touched with her extraordinary talent and dedication to the arts. The story of Yamini Krishnamurthy is one of passion, perseverance, and profound artistry, serving as an enduring inspiration for generations to come.
