Dr. Kumkum Dhar and Dr. Harekrishna Meher Honored with Sanskar Bharti’s Bharatmuni Samman 2024
New Delhi, February 22, 2025: Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, stated today that India is undergoing a cultural renaissance, and as we move forward in this direction, it is essential for everyone to remain vigilant and aware.
Shri Shekhawat was addressing dedicated artists and literary figures at the “Bharatmuni Samman – 2024” event organized by Sanskar Bharati. On this occasion, he honored renowned Kathak dancer Dr. Kumkum Dhar, who trained at the Lucknow Kathak Kendra, and esteemed modern Sanskrit poet and lyricist Dr. Harekrishna Meher with the “Bharatmuni Samman – 2024.” The award included a commemorative memento, a certificate of honor, and a cash prize of ₹1.51 lakh.
Shri Shekhawat emphasized that there could be no greater recognition in the field of arts and culture than the Bharatmuni Samman. He praised the awardees for their dedication to preserving and revitalizing India’s ancient art and culture, reiterating that the nation is experiencing a cultural resurgence and urging caution and awareness as it progresses.
Expressing her gratitude, Dr. Kumkum Dhar stated that receiving an award named after Maharishi Bharatmuni, the author of the Natya Shastra—revered as the Fifth Veda—was deeply moving. She thanked the selection committee and emphasized that art purifies the human mind and instills discipline in life. She added that those devoted to artistic pursuits uphold values and patriotism.
Renowned Sanskrit scholar and lyricist Dr. Harekrishna Meher, another recipient of the Bharatmuni Samman – 2024, described Sanskar Bharati’s recognition of the literary world as a matter of great pride. He expressed his deep gratitude for the honor, considering it a privilege for himself as well as a moment of pride for his home state, Odisha.
Suresh Soni, a senior member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) national executive, captivated the audience with his insightful address. He highlighted Maharishi Bharatmuni’s lifelong dedication and stated that success comes through intense perseverance. He commended the two honorees for their lifelong commitment to their respective art forms.
Soni elaborated on the unique worlds of words and melodies, colors and lines, and emotions and expressions, underscoring that Bharatmuni’s Natya Shastra brought them all together in a unified form. Amidst resounding applause, he further remarked, “Mathematics and music together define the world. For global welfare, it is essential for humanity to be cultured. Without values and ethics, a nation cannot progress, and it is Sanskar Bharati’s mission to instill cultural values throughout India. In this endeavor, art remains the most powerful medium.”
The event was also attended by Dr. Mysore Manjunath, National President of Sanskar Bharati, and Shri Ashwin Dalvi, its All-India General Secretary. They expressed their pride in honoring distinguished artists and literary figures in the name of Maharishi Bharatmuni.
The prestigious Bharatmuni Samman was introduced last year by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat during the Kala Sadhak Sangam in Bengaluru. The inaugural awards were conferred upon Mumbai-based painter Shri Vijay Dasharath Acharekar and Sindhudurg’s folk artist Shri Ganpat Sakharam Masge.
This annual honor is awarded in two categories each year, with recipients selected by a jury based on nominations from institutions, art universities, and individual recommendations.
