Arunima Kumar: Kuchipudi's Global Ambassador Receives Prestigious Honor

Renowned Kuchipudi dancer Arunima Kumar, based in the UK, has made history by becoming the first artist of her discipline to receive the Honorary British Empire Medal (BEM) from King Charles III. The accolade honors her significant contributions to the promotion of Indian classical dance in the United Kingdom and internationally. In an interview with ANI, Kumar expressed her profound gratitude, describing the recognition as a testament to her arduous journey of 'struggle and hard work.'

Kumar recounted her journey to Britain, initially entering the corporate world before identifying the need to institutionalize Kuchipudi. She took it as her mission to establish a professional platform for the dance form, staging performances at major venues. Her Arunima Kumar Dance Company (AKDC) is now collaborating with the British Council to host 'Samarpanam - A Dance Offering,' a cultural event in New Delhi.

The event signifies a unique cultural exchange, involving young British students in a week-long Kuchipudi program in India. Reflecting on her journey from introducing the dance to British audiences to receiving royal acknowledgment, Kumar expressed excitement and gratitude. Having led thousands of performances worldwide, she continues to use dance as a tool for empowerment in various contexts such as hospitals and prisons.