Alwar, May 22: Gafaruddin Mewati Jogi has been selected for the prestigious Padma Shri award for his exceptional skill in playing the bhapang, a traditional musical instrument. The award ceremony will take place on May 25 in New Delhi. The announcement of the Padma awards was made by the Government of India on January 25.
In an interview with a news agency, Gafaruddin expressed his joy at receiving this honor after many years. He mentioned that he felt he should have received this award 20-25 years ago. He expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi, the central government, and the Rajasthan government, stating that this recognition is the fruit of his lifelong hard work.
Gafaruddin has dedicated his life to preserving culture and hopes to continue his work while supporting his family. He noted that opportunities to perform are scarce, making it difficult to sustain a livelihood. He urged the government to promote this art form further, emphasizing his appreciation for any assistance that may come.
Regarding the promotion of government schemes through his bhapang performances, Gafaruddin stated, “I stand with my double-engine government.” He is actively spreading awareness about various welfare schemes of the central and Rajasthan governments, traveling from village to village to share this information.
Reflecting on his past, Gafaruddin recalled a time when he and his father would go door-to-door singing hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva and verses from the Mahabharata to earn a living. His journey from humble beginnings to this significant achievement has been filled with struggles. The announcement of his name as a Padma Shri awardee has sparked joy among local artists in Alwar.
Gafaruddin, known for bringing recognition to the bhapang instrument in India and abroad, has performed in nearly 60 countries. He moved to Alwar in 1978, originally hailing from Bharatpur district. He never imagined he would receive the Padma Shri award, although he has been honored at various levels, including by the Prime Minister and the President.
At 68, Gafaruddin’s home has become a hub of celebration following the award announcement, resembling that of a celebrity. He first showcased his art internationally in 1992. The bhapang, inspired by Lord Shiva’s damru, is a family tradition that Gafaruddin has passed down to his son, Shahrukh Mewati Jogi, who represents the eighth generation of this legacy. Shahrukh, along with other family members, also plays the bhapang and has completed a Ph.D. on Mewati culture. The bhapang is used to narrate Mahabharata tales in the Mewat region, known as ‘Pandav Kade.’
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