Telangana is mourning the lack of Gussadi dance icon Kanaka Raju, who handed away on Friday on the age of 84 attributable to age-related points. Often called “Gussadi Raju,” he devoted his life to preserving and selling the standard Gussadi dance, a big a part of the cultural heritage of the Gonds. His last rites will probably be carried out on Saturday in his native village of Marlawai in Jainoor mandal.
PM Narendra Modi stated, “Saddened by the passing of Shri Kanaka Raju Ji, a prolific dancer and cultural icon. His wealthy contribution to preserving Gussadi dance will all the time inspire the approaching generations. His dedication and keenness ensured that vital facets of cultural heritage can flourish of their genuine type. Condolences to his household and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Saddened by the passing of Shri Kanaka Raju Ji, a prolific dancer and cultural icon. His wealthy contribution to preserving Gussadi dance will all the time inspire the approaching generations. His dedication and keenness ensured that vital facets of cultural heritage can flourish of their… pic.twitter.com/RAu3C8v4d1
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 26, 2024
CM Revanth Reddy stated, “Gussadi Dancer, Padma Shri Gussadi Kanakaraj passes away Shocked. Could his soul relaxation in peace…Praying to God…To his relations…My deepest sympathy.”
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated, “Saddened by the lack of Shri Kanaka Raju ji, iconic Gussadi dance grasp & Padma Shri recipient. His dedication to preserving India’s conventional dance types conjures up generations. Tribute to a cultural legend. Om Shanti.”
Kanaka Raju was a pivotal determine in popularising the Gussadi dance for over 4 many years. He educated hundreds of dancers and labored tirelessly to maintain this conventional artwork type alive. In recognition of his contributions, the Authorities of India honored him with the Padma Shri in 2021, as per report on Occasions of India. To institutionalise his efforts, the Kanaka Raju Faculty of Gussadi Dance was established in Adilabad in 2022, the place he served because the chief dance grasp.
Kanaka Raju’s passing is a big loss to Telangana’s cultural panorama, as he was a torchbearer for indigenous traditions and the Gussadi dance type.