Legendary folk dance master Gusadi Kanaka Raju is honored at an event. File Photo | Photo: Special arrangement
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy joined Telangana in mourning the death of legendary folk dance master Gusadi Kanaka Raju, also known as Gusadi Raju. According to media reports, the 84-year-old dancer died on Friday (October 25, 2024) due to age-related complications. Family sources announced that the last rites will be performed on Saturday (October 26, 2024) afternoon at his native Marlawai village in Jainor Mandal of Kumaram Bhem Asifabad district.
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Padma Shri Award
Kanaka Raju was awarded the Padma Shri national honor in 2021 for his role in bringing folk dance to the world. Hailing from the Raj Gond tribe, Kanaka Raju popularized the rhythmic Gusadi dance. In 1982, he captured the nation’s imagination when he performed for the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
“I was a fearless young man. When Indira Gandhi entered the venue where we were playing, I took the peacock feather cap and put it on her head. I tied a ghungroo on her feet and she danced with us for a few minutes,” Raju told a reporter in an interview after his honour. He is survived by his wife and children.
Published – October 26, 2024, 10:14 AM IST
