Ilona Budai

folk singer, performing artist
Felpéc, 3 April 1951 – Budapest, 15 December 2023
Full member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts (2023–2023)
2018
governmental award

Artist of the Nation

The top prize in the hierarchical system of art awards, granted to Kossuth Prize-winning artists over 65 who have created significant value in their artistic field. By law, no more than seventy artists may hold it simultaneously.

View award
2016
governmental award

Kossuth Prize

The highest Hungarian state decoration for the cultivation and preservation of Hungarian culture.

View award
2014
governmental award

Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit

One of the four highest Hungarian state decorations is the Order of Merit of Hungary, whose grades are awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary activity in culture, science, art, or their own professional field – to promote Hungary’’s interests and the advancement of universal human values.

View award
2010
governmental award

"Tree of Life" Award

State award for those who contributed through their work to the management, preservation, and intergenerational transmission of folk art as public heritage.

View award
1993
governmental award

Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary

One of the four highest Hungarian state awards is the Hungarian Order of Merit, which is granted in various grades to individuals who perform exemplary activities in culture, science, art, or their own field, in order to advance Hungary’’s interests and promote universal human values.

View award
1970
governmental award

Young Master of Folk Arts

State award granted to young (15-35 years old) creators and performing artists who have achieved outstanding individual accomplishments in specific branches of folk art.

View award