January 26, 2025: Rajasthan folk singer Begum Batool has expressed her heartfelt gratitude after being conferred with the Padma Shri award on the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day.
She thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and the government for the prestigious recognition. She noted that receiving the Padma Shri was a momentous occasion, especially as folk music faces the threat of extinction, and emphasized the significance of preserving traditional art forms.
Begum Batool, renowned for her performances of both Hindu bhajans and Muslim Maand, shared that her music conveys a powerful message of communal harmony. Despite being a Muslim, she sings bhajans dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses with deep reverence, which has made her a beloved figure at cultural events. Reflecting on her craft, she also discussed the challenges of singing Maand, a traditional form of song that requires great skill and dedication. Begum highlighted that even if she goes without food for a day, she remains passionate about singing.
Her award comes as part of the 2025 Padma Awards, where a total of 139 individuals have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to various fields. The Padma Shri awardees include individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as renowned ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, Malayalam author MT Vasudevan Nair (posthumously), actor Anant Nag, filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, and singer Arijit Singh, among others. The awards celebrate the achievements of individuals who have had a significant impact in their respective domains, contributing to India’s cultural, artistic, and social fabric.