- Recently, a book titled ‘Rukmini Devi Arundale: Arts Revivalist and Institution Builder’ has been published.
- About Rukmini Devi (1904 – 1986)
- Born in Madurai (Tamil Nadu).
- She was an Indian classical dancer and active member of Theosophical movement.
- Key contributions
- Known for catalysing the renaissance of Bharatnatyam.
- Earlier, Bharatanatyam was associated with temple dancers (Devadasis) and looked down upon by society.
- Founder of Kalakshetra Foundation in Madras (Chennai) to impart the young true spirit of Art.
- Played instrumental role in enactment of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 by the Parliament.
- Achievements
- She was the first women nominated to Rajya Sabha in 1952.
- Awarded Padma Bhushan in 1956, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship in 1967.
- Values: Compassion, Non-violence, Rationalism, etc.
