Bhopal, April 19: Padma Shri Godandas Raikwar, popularly known as ‘Dau’, passed away on Saturday night at AIIMS Bhopal at the age of 83. He had been battling respiratory issues. He took his last breath around 9:30 PM, leaving a wave of sorrow in the sports and cultural community of Madhya Pradesh, especially in the Bundelkhand region.
A true son of the Bundelkhand soil, Godandas Raikwar dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the traditional ‘Akhada’ culture and the martial art of ‘Lathi’ fighting. In 1964, using his limited personal resources, he established the historic ‘Chhatrasal Bundelkhand Akhada’ in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh. Over the decades, he trained more than a thousand students in traditional weaponry and self-defense techniques, bringing the ‘Bundeli’ martial art to international platforms.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to sports and culture, the central government honored him with the prestigious ‘Padma Shri’ award on January 25 of this year.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his condolences on social media, stating that the news of Godandas Raikwar’s passing is extremely sad. He acknowledged Raikwar’s role in giving global recognition to Bundeli martial arts and offered his humble tribute, wishing peace for the departed soul and strength for the grieving family.
Raikwar was admitted to AIIMS Bhopal on April 7 due to deteriorating health and was placed on ventilator support. Despite the medical team’s extensive efforts, he could not be saved.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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