Correct option is C
R. Muthukannammal, a recipient of the Padma Shri award in 2022, is a renowned exponent of the Sadir dance, an early form of Bharatnatyam.
- Sadir was traditionally performed in temples by Devadasis as an offering to deities.
- Muthukannammal is one of the last surviving practitioners of the traditional Devadasi style of Bharatanatyam and has dedicated her life to preserving this cultural art form.
- She hails from Tamil Nadu and belongs to a family with a long lineage of temple dancers.
Additional Information:
- Contribution to Arts and Culture:
- Her work has played a critical role in safeguarding the heritage of Sadir, ensuring it remains an integral part of Bharatanatyam.
- Despite societal challenges and the decline of the Devadasi system, she continued to teach and perform, keeping the tradition alive.
- Recognition:
- The Padma Shri award recognized her lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting an ancient dance tradition.
Other Options:
- Working with Orissa’s poor and backward communities: This does not relate to R. Muthukannammal’s contributions. This description might apply to social activists in Odisha.
- Specializing in the study of Indian society: This relates more to sociologists or anthropologists, not Muthukannammal.
- Playing a key role in powering India’s Blue Revolution: The Blue Revolution refers to advancements in fisheries and aquaculture, unrelated to her work in dance.
