Mysuru: Bharatanatyam danseuse Vidushi Lalita Rao has expressed her gratitude for receiving the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, describing it as a recognition of her dedication to advancing the traditions and culture of Mysuru in the realms of dance and music.

At 78 years old, Lalita Rao shared with Star of Mysore that her journey in dance began in 1957 under the guidance of Padmabhushan Dr. K. Venkatalakshmamma, who was also honoured with the Natyarani Shanthala and Sangeetha Kalaratna Awards.

“The award is a testament to my efforts in conserving the Mysore Style Bharatanatyam. In 1971, I founded Shanthala Nritya Kala Niketana in Bogadi Second Stage, and since then, I have trained thousands of disciples who have achieved success both in India and abroad. For the past 53 years, I have been teaching dance and performing across various states,” Lalita Rao recalled.

Her performances include appearances at Ravindra Kalakshetra in Bengaluru, the Mysuru Dasara, and numerous cultural events organised by the Kannada and Culture Department and the Nritya Academy.

Currently residing in Bengaluru, Lalita Rao has also established a dance school there, continuing her significant contribution to the arts.