Legendary Gussadi Dance Maestro Kanaka Raju Passes Away; PM Modi, Telangana CM Pour Tributes

Known as "Gussadi Raju," Kanaka Raju dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the traditional Gussadi dance, a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Gonds.

In 2021, he Government of India honored him with the Padma Shri in recognition of his contributions.

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Telangana is mourning the loss of Gussadi dance icon Kanaka Raju, who passed away on Friday at the age of 84 due to age-related issues. Known as "Gussadi Raju," he dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the traditional Gussadi dance, a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Gonds. His final rites will be performed on Saturday in his native village of Marlawai in Jainoor mandal.

PM Narendra Modi said, "Saddened by the passing of Shri Kanaka Raju Ji, a prolific dancer and cultural icon. His rich contribution to preserving Gussadi dance will always motivate the coming generations. His dedication and passion ensured that important aspects of cultural heritage can flourish in their authentic form. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."

Saddened by the passing of Shri Kanaka Raju Ji, a prolific dancer and cultural icon. His rich contribution to preserving Gussadi dance will always motivate the coming generations. His dedication and passion ensured that important aspects of cultural heritage can flourish in their… pic.twitter.com/RAu3C8v4d1

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 26, 2024

CM Revanth Reddy said, "Gussadi Dancer, Padma Shri Gussadi Kanakaraj passes away Shocked. May his soul rest in peace...Praying to God...To his family members...My deepest sympathy."

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said, "Saddened by the loss of Shri Kanaka Raju ji, iconic Gussadi dance master & Padma Shri recipient. His dedication to preserving India's traditional dance forms inspires generations. Tribute to a cultural legend. Om Shanti."

Kanaka Raju was a pivotal figure in popularising the Gussadi dance for over four decades. He trained thousands of dancers and worked tirelessly to keep this traditional art form alive. In recognition of his contributions, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Shri in 2021, as per report on Times of India. To institutionalise his efforts, the Kanaka Raju School of Gussadi Dance was established in Adilabad in 2022, where he served as the chief dance master.

Kanaka Raju’s passing is a significant loss to Telangana’s cultural landscape, as he was a torchbearer for indigenous traditions and the Gussadi dance form.