Introduction & Overview
The dynamic landscape of Indian art and culture is continuously shaped by the contributions of its remarkable personalities – artists, writers, performers, and cultural custodians. Recognizing and celebrating these individuals, both living and departed, is crucial for understanding the contemporary pulse of India's vibrant cultural ecosystem. Recent announcements of prestigious national and international awards, significant anniversaries, contemporary debates, and the passing of eminent figures bring these personalities into sharp focus. These events not only honour individual genius but also reflect broader trends in cultural preservation, innovation, and India's growing global influence, often leveraging its soft power.
Recent Awardees
Recent national and international awards highlight outstanding contributions to Indian art and culture.
Padma Awards 2024 (Announced January 2024)
Padma Vibhushan
Vyjayantimala Bali (Art): Veteran Bharatanatyam dancer and actress.
Konidela Chiranjeevi (Art): Iconic Telugu film actor.
Padma Bhushan
M. Fathima Beevi (Posthumous, Public Affairs): First female Supreme Court Judge, contributed to societal awareness through judiciary.
Mithun Chakraborty (Art): Veteran Hindi film actor.
Usha Uthup (Art): Renowned pop and jazz singer.
Vijaykanth (Posthumous, Art): Tamil actor and politician.
Padma Shri (Key A&C)
Parbati Baruah (Social Work, Assam): India's first female elephant mahout (unique cultural practice).
Smriti Rekha Chakma (Art, Tripura): Chakma loinloom shawl weaver.
Ratna Badu (Art, Odisha): Sambalpuri Sari weaver.
Sarbeswar Basumatary (Art, Assam): Bodo folk singer.
Gordhanbhai Gagabhai Zadaphia (Art, Gujarat): Traditional Kutch embroidery.
Padma Awards 2023 (Announced January 2023)
Padma Vibhushan
Zakir Hussain (Art): Renowned Tabla maestro.
S.M. Krishna (Public Affairs): Veteran politician, supported cultural initiatives.
Dilip Mahalanabis (Posthumous, Medicine): Developed ORS, global health impact, indirect cultural relevance.
Padma Bhushan
S.L. Bhyrappa (Literature & Education): Eminent Kannada novelist.
Vani Jairam (Posthumous, Art): Veteran playback singer.
Kapil Dev Prasad (Art): Renowned for Bawan Buti weaving (Bihar).
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (SNA Awards 2022-23 - Announced Feb 2024)
Recognizing Outstanding Practitioners in Music, Dance, Theatre
The Sangeet Natak Akademi Amrit Awards (for artists above 75 years who haven't received national honour) and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar) for the years 2022 and 2023 were announced. These awards recognize outstanding practitioners in music, dance, theatre, traditional arts, puppetry, and allied art forms.
Key Highlights: Over 100 artists honored across various categories.
- Music: Vidushi Bombay Jayashri Ramnath (Carnatic Vocal), Pt. R. G. Jambhekar (Hindustani Vocal), Pt. Rajendra Prasanna (Hindustani Instrumental – Shehnai).
- Dance: Dr. Saroja Vaidyanathan (Bharatanatyam), Darshana Jhaveri (Manipuri).
- Theatre: Pankaj Kumar Mishra (Direction), S. Raghunandan (Playwriting).
- Traditional/Folk/Tribal Arts: Specific artists for diverse folk forms like Bihu, Garba, Lavani, Chhau, etc.
Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023 (Announced December 2023)
Recognizing Literary Works in 24 Major Indian Languages
The Sahitya Akademi Awards recognize literary works in 24 major Indian languages, celebrating the rich linguistic diversity of Indian literature.
- Poetry: Vijay Verma (Dogri), Vinod Joshi (Gujarati), S. C. Narayan (Konkani), Assan Thambi (Malayalam), Prakash Parulekar (Marathi), Gaje Singh Rajpurohit (Rajasthani).
- Novel: Rajasekharan (Tamil), Swarnajit Savi (Punjabi), Sanjeev (Hindi for 'Mujhe Pahchano'), Neelum Saran Gour (English for 'Requiem in Raga Janki').
- Short Stories: Pranabjyoti Deka (Assamese), Nandeswar Daimary (Bodo), Tarsem Singh Nirjar (Kashmiri).
International Recognitions (Last 1 Year)
Grammy Awards 2024
Shakti (Band): Won 'Best Global Music Album' for "This Moment". Features Zakir Hussain (Tabla) and Shankar Mahadevan (Vocals), along with John McLaughlin and V. Selvaganesh.
Zakir Hussain: Also won 'Best Global Music Performance' for "Pashto" and 'Best Contemporary Instrumental Album' for "As We Speak" (shared with Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Rakesh Chaurasia). He was a multiple Grammy winner.
Rakesh Chaurasia: Won 'Best Global Music Performance' for "Pashto" and 'Best Contemporary Instrumental Album' for "As We Speak" (shared with Zakir Hussain and others).
Academy Awards (Oscars) 2023
"Naatu Naatu" (from RRR): Won 'Best Original Song'. Music by M. M. Keeravani, lyrics by Chandrabose. A monumental achievement for Indian cinema's global recognition.
"The Elephant Whisperers": Won 'Best Documentary Short Film'. Directed by Kartiki Gonsalves and produced by Guneet Monga.
Anniversaries & Commemorations
Government and cultural institutions often organize events to commemorate major anniversaries of influential personalities.
150th Birth Anniversary of Sri Aurobindo (1872-1950)
The year-long celebrations declared by the Government of India in 2022 continued till August 2023. Sri Aurobindo, a philosopher, yoga guru, poet, and nationalist, significantly influenced Indian spiritual and cultural thought. Various seminars, conferences, and publications were organized.
125th Birth Anniversary of V. Shantaram (1901-1990)
The veteran filmmaker and producer, known for his socially relevant and artistic cinema, was remembered through film festivals, retrospectives, and discussions in 2023.
Commemorations of Cultural Icons
While no major centennial/bicentennial anniversaries for figures like Tagore or Gandhi fell in 2023, various cultural institutions continued to organize events related to their philosophies and works, especially in education and social harmony.
Contemporary Contributions & Debates
Beyond awards, certain individuals contribute to ongoing cultural discourse or produce impactful contemporary works.
Artists Leading Cultural Revival/Modernization
Many younger artists are blending traditional Indian art forms with contemporary themes or digital media, leading cultural innovation and adaptation. (e.g., Artists exploring AI in Indian classical art or traditional craftsmanship).
Writers and Public Intellectuals
Engaging in debates around identity, freedom of expression, history, and cultural nationalism. Authors like Arundhati Roy (recent works and socio-political commentary), Shashi Tharoor (historical writings, cultural debates), Devdutt Pattanaik (mythology and contemporary relevance), and Amish Tripathi (mythological fiction influencing popular culture) continue to shape discourse.
Performing Arts Leaders
Choreographers, musicians, and theatre directors who are experimenting with new formats, fusing genres, or using their art to address social issues. The global success of "Naatu Naatu" and the band Shakti highlights a growing trend of Indian musicians and filmmakers gaining mainstream international recognition, often through genre-bending or cross-cultural collaborations. This sparks discussions on India's global cultural impact.
Obituaries: Remembering Legacies
The passing of cultural stalwarts leaves a void but also provides an opportunity to reflect on their legacy.
Vani Jairam (1945-2023)
Veteran playback singer, passed away in February 2023. She had sung over 10,000 songs in multiple Indian languages. Recipient of the Padma Bhushan in January 2023, just days before her demise, and multiple National Film Awards.
K. Viswanath (1930-2023)
Legendary Telugu film director and screenwriter, passed away in February 2023. Known for his culturally rich films. Recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2016), five National Film Awards, and multiple Filmfare Awards.
Sulochana Latkar (1928-2023)
Veteran Marathi and Hindi film actress, passed away in July 2023. Known for her powerful performances as a mother figure in over 250 films. Awarded the Padma Shri (1999) and Maharashtra Bhushan (2009).
Satish Kaushik (1956-2023)
Popular actor, director, producer, and screenwriter in Hindi cinema, passed away in March 2023. Known for his versatile roles and comedic timing.
Conclusion & Significance
The personalities highlighted by recent awards, anniversaries, debates, and obituaries form the living and historical fabric of Indian art and culture. Their contributions underscore the immense depth, diversity, and dynamism of India's cultural sphere. Recognizing them is not merely about honouring individual talent but about acknowledging the enduring power of culture in shaping national identity, fostering social cohesion, and projecting India's unique voice on the global stage.
These individuals, through their artistic excellence, intellectual contributions, and cultural stewardship, play an instrumental role in bridging tradition with modernity, initiating dialogue, and ensuring that India's rich cultural heritage continues to inspire and engage generations both within and beyond its borders. The focus on them in current affairs highlights the government's efforts to preserve and promote culture as a core component of its soft power.
Prelims-ready Notes
- Padma Awards 2024 (Jan 2024):
- Vibhushan: Vyjayantimala Bali (Art - Dance/Acting), Konidela Chiranjeevi (Art - Acting).
- Bhushan: Mithun Chakraborty (Art - Acting), Usha Uthup (Art - Singing), Vijaykanth (Posthumous, Art - Acting).
- Padma Awards 2023 (Jan 2023):
- Vibhushan: Zakir Hussain (Art - Tabla).
- Bhushan: S.L. Bhyrappa (Lit.), Vani Jairam (Posthumous, Art - Singing).
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (SNA, Feb 2024 for 2022-23): Recognize music, dance, theatre, traditional/folk/tribal arts. Over 100 artists honoured.
- Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023 (Dec 2023): Given for 24 languages. Neelum Saran Gour (English), Sanjeev (Hindi).
- International Awards:
- Grammy 2024 (Feb 2024): Shakti band (Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan) - Best Global Music Album. Zakir Hussain (multiple wins), Rakesh Chaurasia (multiple wins).
- Oscars 2023 (March 2023): "Naatu Naatu" (Best Original Song), "The Elephant Whisperers" (Best Documentary Short Film).
- Anniversaries: Sri Aurobindo (150th Birth Anniversary celebrations continued till Aug 2023), V. Shantaram (125th Birth Anniversary in 2023).
- Obituaries (Eminent): Vani Jairam (Feb 2023, Padma Bhushan 2023 recipient), K. Viswanath (Feb 2023, Dadasaheb Phalke Awardee), Sulochana Latkar (July 2023, Padma Shri), Satish Kaushik (March 2023).
| Award | Year (Awarded/Announced) | Key Art & Culture Recipients (Indian) |
|---|---|---|
| Padma Vibhushan | 2024 | Vyjayantimala Bali, Konidela Chiranjeevi |
| 2023 | Zakir Hussain | |
| Padma Bhushan | 2024 | Mithun Chakraborty, Usha Uthup, Vijaykanth (Posthumous) |
| 2023 | S.L. Bhyrappa, Vani Jairam (Posthumous), Kapil Dev Prasad | |
| Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards | 2022-23 (Feb 2024) | Bombay Jayashri Ramnath, R. G. Jambhekar, Darshana Jhaveri (and ~100 others) |
| Sahitya Akademi Awards | 2023 (Dec 2023) | Neelum Saran Gour (English), Sanjeev (Hindi) (and others in 24 languages) |
| Grammy Awards | 2024 (Feb 2024) | Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain, Rakesh Chaurasia (for Shakti/collaborations) |
| Academy Awards (Oscars) | 2023 (March 2023) | M. M. Keeravani, Chandrabose ("Naatu Naatu"); Kartiki Gonsalves, Guneet Monga ("The Elephant Whisperers") |
Mains-ready Analytical Notes
These points help analyze the broader implications of cultural personalities and their recognition:
- Reflection of Cultural Trends: Awardees often reflect evolving trends in cultural recognition (e.g., greater emphasis on folk artists in Padma Awards, increasing global acceptance of Indian popular culture like Bollywood music).
- Government's Cultural Agenda: The selection of awardees and the commemoration of historical figures (e.g., Sri Aurobindo's 150th) signal the government's focus on specific aspects of national heritage, spiritual traditions, or soft power projection.
- Role of Soft Power: Global awards (Grammy, Oscar) and recognition for figures like Zakir Hussain and the "Naatu Naatu" team directly contribute to India's cultural soft power, enhancing its global appeal and influence through non-coercive means.
- Intergenerational Linkages: Commemorations of historical figures bridge generations, inspiring contemporary artists and scholars. Award ceremonies serve as platforms to recognize both established maestros and emerging talents, ensuring continuity.
- Challenges and Debates:
- Award Criteria: Debates sometimes arise regarding the selection criteria, political influence, or perceived biases in national awards.
- Commercialization vs. Authenticity: The global success of cultural products (like Bollywood) raises questions about balancing commercial appeal with cultural authenticity.
- Freedom of Expression: Artists and writers are often at the forefront of debates on freedom of expression, censorship, and the role of art in society.
- Preservation vs. Innovation: How to encourage contemporary contributions while preserving traditional art forms.
- Significance of Obituaries: The passing of cultural giants prompts national reflection on their contributions, their artistic legacy, and the need to nurture new talent to fill the void. It underscores the ephemeral nature of performance arts and the importance of archiving.
Current Affairs & Recent Developments
Republic Day 2024 Padma Awards (Jan 2024)
A major annual highlight for cultural personalities. Key recipients like Vyjayantimala Bali, Chiranjeevi, Mithun Chakraborty, Usha Uthup, and Vijaykanth represent diverse facets of Indian cinema and performing arts. The inclusion of folk artists and traditional craftspeople (e.g., Parbati Baruah, Smriti Rekha Chakma) signifies a focus on grassroots cultural heritage.
Grammy Success (Feb 2024)
The multiple wins for Indian artists, particularly Zakir Hussain and Shankar Mahadevan (Shakti), and Rakesh Chaurasia, at the 2024 Grammy Awards, is a major current affair highlighting India's increasing global footprint in music and cross-cultural collaborations.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Feb 2024)
The declaration of awards for 2022-23 recognizes a vast array of talent across various traditional Indian performing arts, ensuring the continuity and promotion of these forms.
Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023 (Dec 2023)
Recognition of significant literary works in diverse Indian languages, showcasing the dynamism of contemporary Indian literature.
Vani Jairam's Demise (Feb 2023)
Her passing, shortly after being awarded the Padma Bhushan, was a significant event, prompting tributes and discussions about her vast legacy in Indian music. Similarly, the demise of K. Viswanath (Dadasaheb Phalke awardee) highlighted the contributions of Indian regional cinema.
UPSC Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
A. Prelims MCQs
1. UPSC Prelims 2023: In the context of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, which of the following statements is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Show Answer
Answer: (c)
Hint: This question tests knowledge of cultural forms that are championed by personalities and promoted by the government.
2. UPSC Prelims 2019: Consider the following pairs:
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
Show Answer
Answer: (d)
Hint: This question tests knowledge of traditional performing arts, whose practitioners are often awardees or eminent personalities.
B. Mains Questions
1. UPSC Mains 2018 (GS II):
"Cultural diplomacy is a growing component of India's foreign policy." Discuss how it has been instrumental in enhancing India's global influence and shaping perceptions. (15 marks, 250 words)
Show Key Points
Key Points/Structure:
- Introduction: Briefly define soft power and set the context of recent global recognitions for India.
- Recent Examples of Recognition:
- Grammy 2024: Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain, Rakesh Chaurasia (Shakti band's global appeal).
- Oscar 2023: "Naatu Naatu," "The Elephant Whisperers" (global reach of Indian cinema, documentary storytelling).
- Padma Awards 2024/2023: Recognition of diverse artists, highlighting depth and breadth of Indian culture.
- Sahitya Akademi/SNA Awards: Promoting literary and performing arts talent.
- How Recognitions Bolster Soft Power/Cultural Diplomacy:
- Increased Visibility: Puts Indian culture on global stage.
- Universal Appeal: Shows resonance of Indian arts/values beyond borders.
- Goodwill & Bridges: Fosters cultural understanding and strengthens bilateral ties.
- Economic Impact: Boosts cultural tourism, creative industries.
- Confidence & Inspiration: Inspires future generations of artists.
- Challenges (briefly): Sustaining momentum, consistent funding, countering stereotypes.
- Conclusion: Summarize that these individual achievements collectively contribute to India's enhanced global stature and cultural influence.
2. UPSC Mains 2016 (GS I):
Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the hour. Discuss. (10 marks, 150 words)
Show Key Points
Key Points/Structure:
- Discuss the role of individual artists (like the SNA awardees) in preserving and transmitting traditional art forms.
- Mention the significance of honouring them to ensure continuity and prevent the loss of skills and knowledge.
- Emphasize governmental policies, public awareness, and educational initiatives for heritage preservation.
- Briefly touch upon challenges like commercialization, fading interest, and lack of documentation.
C. Original MCQs for Prelims
1. Which of the following Indian personalities recently won multiple Grammy Awards in February 2024?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Show Answer
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Shankar Mahadevan and Zakir Hussain won for the band Shakti, and Zakir Hussain and Rakesh Chaurasia also won individual awards. A.R. Rahman won Grammys earlier, but not in 2024.
2. Consider the following statements regarding cultural personalities in recent news:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show Answer
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect; K. Viswanath passed away in Feb 2023 but had received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2016. Statement 3 is correct.
D. Original Descriptive Questions for Mains
1. "The recent national and international recognitions for Indian artists and cultural practitioners signify a growing global appreciation for India's diverse soft power assets."
Discuss this statement with relevant examples from the last year, critically analyzing how such recognitions bolster India's cultural diplomacy. (15 marks, 250 words)
Show Key Points/Structure
Key Points/Structure:
- Introduction: Define soft power, contextualize recent global recognitions.
- Recent Examples: Grammy 2024 (Shakti, Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, Rakesh Chaurasia), Oscar 2023 ("Naatu Naatu", "The Elephant Whisperers"), Padma Awards for diverse artists.
- Bolstering Soft Power: Increased visibility, universal appeal, fostering goodwill, economic impact (tourism, creative industries), inspiring future artists.
- Challenges (brief): Sustaining momentum, funding, countering stereotypes.
- Conclusion: Individual achievements collectively enhance India's global cultural influence.
2. "The passing of eminent cultural personalities prompts reflection on their indelible artistic legacies and the challenges of ensuring the continuity of traditional art forms."
Discuss this statement, drawing upon recent obituaries in Indian art and culture. (10 marks, 150 words)
Show Key Points/Structure
Key Points/Structure:
- Introduction: Loss of stalwarts, dual impact of celebrating legacy and highlighting continuity challenges.
- Legacy through Recent Obituaries:
- Vani Jairam: Contribution to playback singing, challenge of finding similar versatility.
- K. Viswanath: Unique cultural filmmaking, challenge of preserving rooted cinema.
- Sulochana Latkar/Satish Kaushik: Versatile acting contributions.
- Challenges of Continuity: Transmission gaps (skills/knowledge), changing audience tastes, documentation/archiving, nurturing new talent.
- Conclusion: Individual genius is irreplaceable, but collective effort (govt. support, academics, community) ensures legacies endure.