The Union government recently conferred the prestigious Padma Shri awards to individuals excelling in various fields. Among the recipients were Jammu’s Dogri folk dancer Romalo Ram, Srinagar’s woodcarver Ghulam Nabi Dar, and Himachal Pradesh’s vocalist Som Dutt Battu.
Romalo Ram’s Gratitude and Contribution
Romalo Ram, a retired zonal education officer, expressed his gratitude to the people of Duggar Pradesh and the Centre for recognizing his efforts. Hailing from Amro, a small village in Udhampur district, Romalo Ram sees the award as not just a personal honor but as a revival of Dogri folk art.
Impact on Dogri Folk Art
According to Romalo Ram, the award has brought Dogri folk art, particularly dance and song, back to life. He views himself as a medium for the art form and believes that this recognition has rekindled hopes for its revival.
Surprising Recognition for Woodcarver Ghulam Nabi Dar
The Padma Shri award was a surprise for 72-year-old woodcarver Ghulam Nabi Dar, who has been a significant figure in Kashmir’s artisan community.
Encouragement for Struggling Artisans
Dar sees the award as a moment of encouragement and recognition for the hard work put in by artisans, addressing concerns about the lack of acknowledgment from the government. He believes this honor will give a new lease of life to the struggling artisans of Kashmir.
Global Recognition for Kashmiri Craft
Director of Handicrafts and Handloom, Mehmood Shah, expressed pride in Dar’s achievement, stating that the award will provide global recognition to Kashmir’s craft and art.
Remarkable Contributions in Folk Music by Som Dutt Battu
The third recipient, 87-year-old Som Dutt Battu from Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, received the Padma Shri for his exceptional contributions to folk music and classical singing.
Global Impact of Battu’s Talent
Battu, a vocalist from the esteemed Patiala Gharana, has left an indelible mark on classical music. His talent resonates not only across India but also in countries like America, Nigeria, West Indies, Pakistan, and Kenya, where he has performed during his 40-year career.
Recognition and Awards
Retired as a music professor from Rajiv Gandhi Degree College, Shimla, Battu has received recognition from his home state, with the Himachal Pradesh government bestowing upon him the Himachal Gaurav in 2016. In 2015, he was awarded the Punjabi Sangeet Ratna.
Felicitation by Himachal Chief Minister
Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh felicitated Battu for his achievements, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of music.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
1. Who among the following received the Padma Shri for Dogri folk dance?
- a) Ghulam Nabi Dar
- b) Som Dutt Battu
- c) Romalo Ram
- d) Mehmood Shah
Answer: c) Romalo Ram
2. Which artisan expressed surprise upon receiving the Padma Shri and believed it would encourage struggling artisans in Kashmir?
- a) Romalo Ram
- b) Ghulam Nabi Dar
- c) Som Dutt Battu
- d) Mehmood Shah
Answer: b) Ghulam Nabi Dar
3. Som Dutt Battu is associated with which Gharana in classical music?
- a) Patiala Gharana
- b) Kirana Gharana
- c) Mewati Gharana
- d) Banaras Gharana
Answer: a) Patiala Gharana