In a momentous recognition of cultural preservation, veteran folk artist Raghuveer Khedkar has been named among the distinguished Padma Shri awardees for the year 2026. This prestigious honour marks a significant milestone for the dedicated artist, who has devoted over five decades to nurturing and promoting the traditional Tamasha folk theatre of Maharashtra.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Tamasha Tradition
Raghuveer Khedkar has become synonymous with keeping the vibrant Tamasha art form alive and relevant in contemporary times. His journey began in childhood when he first learned the intricate craft from his mother, absorbing the nuances of this traditional performance art. Over the years, he has not only carried forward his mother's legacy but has expanded its reach beyond state boundaries, introducing Tamasha to wider audiences across India.
Sustaining Cultural Heritage Through Training
Throughout his extensive career, Khedkar has demonstrated remarkable commitment to preserving this cultural treasure. He has led his own Tamasha troupe, performing countless shows that showcase the rich theatrical traditions of Maharashtra. More importantly, he has dedicated substantial effort to training numerous young performers, ensuring that the knowledge and techniques of Tamasha are passed down to future generations.
Emotional Response to the Recognition
Following the official announcement, Khedkar expressed profound emotions about receiving this national honour. "I can't believe I've received the Padma Shri award, and I'm very, very happy because my work, which I've done over fifty-three years, has been recognised," he shared with ANI. The veteran artist described the news as feeling unreal even after hearing it officially.
In his heartfelt statement, Khedkar emphasized his gratitude toward the Government of India for acknowledging his lifelong dedication. He made a special dedication of this honour to his mother, stating, "I would like to dedicate this honour to my mother because she taught me, she guided me. It's all because of my mother, and I dedicate this to her." This emotional tribute highlights the personal journey and family legacy behind his artistic accomplishments.
Republic Day 2026 Padma Awards Announcement
The Ministry of Home Affairs revealed the complete list of Padma Award recipients on the eve of Republic Day 2026, celebrating individuals who have made exceptional contributions to various fields across the nation. The awards encompass three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, with Khedkar receiving recognition in the latter category alongside other distinguished personalities from arts, education, sports, and numerous other disciplines.
Comprehensive Breakdown of 2026 Honours
For 2026, the President of India has approved the conferment of 131 Padma Awards, which includes 2 duo cases where the award counts as a single recognition. The detailed distribution comprises:
- 5 Padma Vibhushan awards
- 13 Padma Bhushan awards
- 113 Padma Shri awards
The list reflects India's diversity with 19 women awardees, 6 recipients from the categories of Foreigners, NRIs, PIOs, or OCIs, and 16 Posthumous awardees being honoured for their contributions.
Selection Process and National Significance
The Padma Awards are conferred based on recommendations from the specially constituted Padma Awards Committee, which is reformed annually under the Prime Minister's guidance. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most deserving individuals receive these civilian honours for their service to the nation.
Raghuveer Khedkar's recognition serves as a powerful testament to the importance of preserving India's rich folk traditions. His Padma Shri award not only celebrates his personal achievements but also brings renewed attention to the Tamasha theatre form, encouraging its continued practice and appreciation among younger generations. This honour reinforces the government's commitment to acknowledging grassroots cultural workers who form the backbone of India's diverse artistic heritage.
