Andhra University Scholar Pavani Pasumarthi Wins Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar

Andhra University research scholar Pavani Pasumarthi has received the prestigious 'Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar' for 2025 in the category of 'Music for Dance'. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presented the award to her at a ceremony held at the Rabindra Bhavan in New Delhi on October 19, 2026. The Sangeet Natak Akademi selected her for the honor, and Akademi chairperson Sandhya Purecha presided over the event. Ms. Pasumarthi's doctoral research at Andhra University focused on the importance of Carnatic music in Kuchipudi dance. Her creative work includes composing music for 30 Kuchipudi ballets and 150 solo pieces. Following her achievement, Andhra University Vice-Chancellor G.P. Raja Sekhar congratulated her and wished her success in her future endeavors. Coming from a traditional Kuchipudi family, she dedicated the recognition to her gurus, including her father, Pasumarthi Srinivasulu; her grandfather, Pasumarthi Venu Gopala Krishna Sarma, who received an Akademi award in 1987; and B.V. Durga Bhavani, a top-grade violinist with All India Radio in Vijayawada.

Context

The Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's national academy for music, dance, and drama, regularly honors young artists to encourage and support traditional performing arts across the country. Awards like the Yuva Puraskar highlight the dedication of emerging scholars and artists who preserve and promote classical Indian art forms.