New Delhi: The classical dance world mourns the passing of Yamini Krishnamurthy, one of India’s most revered Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi dancers, who passed away at the age of 83 on Saturday at Delhi’s Apollo Hospital. A pioneering figure in Indian classical dance, Krishnamurthy’s influence and artistry shaped the landscape of Indian performing arts.
Born in 1941, Yamini Krishnamurthy’s journey in dance began at a young age, and she quickly established herself as a prodigious talent. Her remarkable career spanned over six decades, during which she became a symbol of grace and technical brilliance. Krishnamurthy was instrumental in popularizing Bharatanatyam in North India, particularly in Delhi, where she chose to base her career in the 1960s. Her efforts to elevate the dance form on the global stage earned her recognition and acclaim far beyond Indian borders.
Krishnamurthy’s contributions to classical dance were widely acknowledged and celebrated. She was honored with numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 1968, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1977, the Padma Bhushan in 2001, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2016. These accolades reflect her exceptional skill and dedication to the arts.
