title: Kanaka Raju
text: # Kanaka Raju
  
  Kanaka Raju is an Indian Gussadi dancer. In 2021, he received the Padma Shri award from the Indian government for his contribution to the arts.
  
  ## Early life
  
  Raju is from Marlavai village, Jainoor, in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district.
  
  ## Career
  
  Raju has been teaching Gussadi dance for more than forty years. In 1981, he performed in the Republic Day parade. He is chief dance master of Kanaka Raju School of Gusadi dance.
  
  ## Awards
  
  * Padma Shri in 2021
  