Bhubaneswar: Ananya Jugade, a bright and multi-talented student of Class VIII from ODM Public School, Patia, Bhubaneswar, has brought immense pride to her school and the entire state by winning the prestigious 18 Under 18 Award 2025.
This coveted honour, presented by EIILM-Kolkata and powered by UEM Kolkata in collaboration with Techno India University, was hosted by The Telegraph Online Edugraph to recognise extraordinary young achievers from Eastern and North Eastern India.
Ananya, an accomplished Odissi dancer, has already carved a niche for herself in the classical dance community with an impressive array of accolades, including the Suravi Prativa Samman for securing first position in Suravi Prativa Anwesana 2025, Debaprava Award, Makar Samman 2025, Nritya Shree Award, Dr. Snehaprava Samantray National Odissi Dance Award, Nrutya Kalabhushan Bal Puraskar, and many others. She was also the Junior Winner of Debadasi 2024, a popular dance reality show aired on Sidharth TV, Odisha. Her achievements in dance have been further complemented by awards like Nritya Bhushan (Jhankriti 2023) and Natya Vikasa Award 2023.
Also Read: Bhubaneswar celebrates World Dance Day with cultural extravaganza
The 18 Under 18 Award ceremony took place on April 18 at the auditorium of South City International School, Kolkata. The event celebrated eighteen exceptional individuals under the age of 18 for their outstanding contributions across diverse domains—ranging from innovation and academics to performing arts and social impact.
Ananya received her award from none other than renowned dancer Tanusree Shankar (daughter-in-law of Uday Shankar and Pt. Ravi Shankar) and Prof. (Dr.) Rama Prosad Banerjee, founder and director of EIILM Kolkata. The event was graced by distinguished guests including Dr. Shashi Tharoor (author, diplomat, and Member of Parliament) and celebrated actress Swastika Mukherjee.
Before reaching the finals, nominees underwent a competitive selection process. Schools from across the Eastern and North Eastern region were invited to nominate their best students. From over 5000 nominations, 50 finalists were shortlisted, and 18 were finally selected after rigorous interviews conducted by a jury of esteemed personalities, including Bickram Ghosh, Dr. Jai Ranjan Ram, Debaditya Chaudhury, Indrajit Bhalotia, Sujata Sen, Dibyendu Barua, Mudar Patherya, Sumantra Chattarji, and Tanusree Shankar herself.
Beyond her dance prowess, Ananya is a true all-rounder. She consistently excels in academics and has earned accolades in essay writing, debate, recitation, and role plays, proving her versatility and dedication.
Daughter of Amol Jugade and Sonal Jugade, Ananya embodies the spirit of perseverance and passion. With her relentless dedication to her craft and academics alike, there is no doubt that Ananya has a luminous future ahead.
