NEW DELHI: Mingma D Lepcha, a talented dancer from Sikkim, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2022-23 along with 82 young artists. The recognition was presented by the Sangeet Natak Akademi which celebrates exceptional young talent in music, dance, and drama. Marking a significant milestone in Lepcha’s career, the award ceremony took place in New Delhi on 22nd November.
Lepcha, a celebrated artist from Namchi, Sikkim, has earned national recognition for his impressive contributions to dance. Known for his creativity and exceptional skills, he has participated in numerous national and international reality shows, captivating audiences and earning accolades for his performances. In addition to being an accomplished performer, Lepcha has worked as a choreographer in the entertainment industry, contributing to various productions with his innovative choreography. This honour celebrates his dedication and commitment to the art form, highlighting his role in promoting Sikkim’s cultural heritage on the national stage.
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The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar is awarded annually to performers under the age of 40 who have shown exceptional talent in music, dance, and drama. Since its inception in 2006, the award has recognized the achievements of young artists across India. Each recipient receives a cash prize of Rs 25,000, a plaque, and an angavastram. This year, a total of 82 young artists have been conferred with the prestigious award, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to various performing art forms.
Among the other notable recipients are Arupa Gayatri Panda, selected for her excellence in Odissi dance for the year 2022, and Debasish Pattnaik, who is being recognized for his promising work in Odissi dance for 2023. Folk dancer and musician Alok Bishoyi is also among the awardees for 2023.
In addition, five distinguished artists from Assam have been honoured with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for 2022-23. The Assam awardees include Meghranjani Medhi for Kathak, Dimpi Baisya and Mukunda Saikia Barbayan for Sattriya, Mukunda Nath for Mime, and Binita Devi for Puppetry. These artists have been recognized for their dedication to preserving and promoting traditional art forms, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of India.
The award ceremony, organized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, was presided over by Sandhya Purecha, Chairman of the Akademi, and Uma Nanduri, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.