Lucknow: Master of Performing Arts (Kathak) student at Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Shweta Gupta, has been selected for seven gold medals, including the university’s highest honour, the Rai Umanath Bali Megha Gold Medal. She will receive the awards at the university’s 16th convocation on Jul 15. University examination controller Ruchi Khare said Gupta’s outstanding academic performance earned her the highest number of honours.“My parents always supported me and their love, encouragement and guidance helped me win these medals,” said Shweta, adding, “My idol is Pandit Birju Maharaj. After watching him perform on television when I was 7, I decided to take up dance.”Sparsh Kumar Kashyap, MPA (Vocal) student, will receive four gold medals. “My parents played a vital role in helping me achieve this recognition,” he said. In the undergraduate category, Alok Kumar Mishra, a BPA (Tabla) student, will be awarded three gold medals and a bronze medal. He is carrying forward a family tradition, as music is an integral part of his household.Priya Dubey, a BPA (Vocal) student, will receive four gold medals. “People in my village once taunted me, but now they are calling to congratulate me on my success,” she said. The prestigious Padma Shri Raj Bisaria Gold Medal will be awarded to Kartum Teraiya, a Master of Dramatic Arts (Acting) student.The university will also confer PhD degrees on Alok Kumar, Sandhya Pachoniya and Vikas Awasthi. Altogether, 23 students will receive 48 medals at the ceremony. Governor Anandiben Patel will preside over the convocation, while tabla maestro Pandit Kumar Bose will attend as the chief guest.
