Dr.Shobha Koser Honored with Sangeet Natak Akademi Award by Hon’ble President Ram Nath Kovind
An ideal artist’s life is full of struggle and hard work. Their dedication, tenacity and their love for that craft are what keeps them going. Achieving recognition and accolades are always special be it of any measure. The Sangeet Natak Akademi award is the country’s biggest award conferred upon an artist and on Wednesday Dr Shobha Koser, an exemplary kathak danseuse, who has dedicated her life for the love of Kathak and is still serving as a pioneer in promoting Indian Classical Music and Dance through Pracheen Kala Kendra which she carried forward with her husband Guru M. L. Koser, was presented with the prestigious award.
Dr Shobha Koser, a senior disciple of Guru Kundan Lal Gangani, has been performing and teaching Kathak in its purest form since the last four decades. Belonging to the decorated Jaipur Gharana of Kathak, Dr. Koser has a triple MA to her credit in her craft. She is also part of many advisory boards to various state and central government agencies.
After receiving the coveted award, Dr Shobha Koser was predictably elated after receiving the prestigious honour from the hands of His Excellency himself, Hon’ble President of India. She said ” I’m out of words. No feeling has ever been more humbling than what today felt like. It’s like a lifetime of hard work finally paid off. It’s really a dream come true. I will remember this day and this moment till my last breath.” A teary-eyed Shobha ji also thanked the Akademi and Govt. of India for recommending her name for the award and making her be a part of history.