Ekalavya International Award

The Ekalavya International Award is a prestigious and unique recognition that honors exceptional self-taught artists who have acquired mastery in their chosen dance form without formal tutelage or mentorship. Named after the legendary figure of **Ekalavya** from Indian mythology—a character known for his unyielding dedication, self-discipline, and the ability to learn through his own determination and practice—the award celebrates those who have undertaken a journey of learning and mastering classical dance independently, relying on their innate passion, self-study, and perseverance.

Objective:

The Ekalavya International Award seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of artists who have chosen an unconventional path to learning, driven purely by self-motivation and the desire to immerse themselves in the art form. The award aims to recognize those who, through their own efforts, have developed remarkable skills in classical dance, whether it is Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, or any other traditional form of dance.