Bihar's Cultural and Scientific Icons Awarded Prestigious Padma Shri Honors
In a moment of pride for Bihar, three distinguished individuals from the state have been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri awards for their remarkable contributions in the fields of art and science & engineering. The recipients include folk dancer Bishwa Bandhu, Bhojpuri folk singer Bharat Singh Bharti, and agricultural scientist Gopal Ji Trivedi.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Extends Congratulations and Tributes
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar warmly welcomed the announcement of the Padma Awards and extended his heartfelt congratulations to Bharat Singh Bharti and Gopal Ji Trivedi on receiving the Padma Shri. He also paid a moving tribute to Bishwa Bandhu, who has been conferred the honor posthumously, acknowledging his lasting legacy in the cultural sphere.
Remembering Bishwa Bandhu: A Pioneer in Folk Dance
Bishwa Bandhu, who hailed from Daudpur-Shahpur in Patna district, passed away last year at the age of 95. He is survived by two daughters and a son. With an impressive career spanning over 6,000 stage performances, Bandhu played a pivotal role in popularizing the traditional folk dance form known as 'Domkach'. His innovative spirit led him to found a new dance form called 'Kamla Puja Shatchakra Agni Nritya', showcasing his creativity and dedication to the art.
Beyond his local impact, Bandhu also promoted other dance styles such as 'Jhijhra' and 'Jhanu' at the international level, bringing Bihar's rich cultural heritage to a global audience. In a bold move, he left his secure job as a teacher at T K Ghosh Academy in Patna to establish Surangan in the Bhikhna Pahadi area of the city in 1959. This institution became a hub for training students in folk dance, with Bandhu dedicating his entire life to this mission.
His disciple, Jitendra Chaurasia, shared insights into his guru's profound influence, stating that Bandhu taught thousands of students over the years. "He left a secure job to devote his entire life to folk dance and its propagation," Chaurasia remarked, highlighting the selfless commitment that defined Bandhu's career.
Bharat Singh Bharti: Spreading Bhojpuri Music Worldwide
Bharat Singh Bharti, a renowned Bhojpuri folk singer, has captivated audiences with more than 1,000 songs throughout his illustrious career. Associated with All India Radio, Patna since 1962, Bharti has been instrumental in taking Bhojpuri folk music to a global stage. Along with his team, he has performed in several countries, earning acclaim and fostering cultural exchange.
His contributions to art have been recognized earlier by the state government, and the Padma Shri award further cements his status as a cultural ambassador for Bihar. Bharti's work not only preserves traditional music but also adapts it for contemporary audiences, ensuring its relevance and appeal across generations.
Gopal Ji Trivedi: Advancing Agricultural Science in Bihar
Gopal Ji Trivedi, the former vice-chancellor of Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University in Pusa, is celebrated for his groundbreaking work in agricultural extension, technological adoption, and sustainable farming practices. Hailing from the Gayghat area of Muzaffarpur, Trivedi has made significant strides in Bihar's agricultural sector, directly impacting farmers' livelihoods and productivity.
As a litchi farmer himself, Trivedi pioneered the adoption of rejuvenation canopy management in orchards, a technique that has enhanced fruit quality and yield. His innovative approaches extend to encouraging farmers to cultivate water chestnut and makhana, as well as promoting winter maize farming in the region. These initiatives have contributed to diversifying crops and improving agricultural sustainability in Bihar.
Trivedi's recognition with the Padma Shri underscores the importance of scientific contributions to rural development and food security, highlighting how his research and practical applications have transformed farming practices in the state.
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
The conferment of the Padma Shri awards to these three individuals from Bihar reflects a broader narrative of dedication, innovation, and cultural preservation. From the artistic realms of folk dance and music to the scientific advancements in agriculture, their work exemplifies how passion and expertise can drive positive change in society.
As Bihar celebrates these honors, the stories of Bishwa Bandhu, Bharat Singh Bharti, and Gopal Ji Trivedi serve as an inspiration for future generations, encouraging them to pursue excellence in their respective fields while contributing to the state's rich heritage and development.
