In a proud moment for Haryana’s rich folk tradition, veteran artist Shri Mahabir Singh Guddu has been conferred the Padma Shri for his invaluable contributions to Art, particularly the preservation and promotion of Haryanvi folk music and performance arts.
Hailing from Gangoli village in Jind district, Guddu began his artistic journey over five decades ago. Known for his vibrant performances of Shiv Gaayan, Bam Lahri, Ghoda Naach, and other traditional forms, he has captivated audiences across India and abroad. His works are steeped in the oral history and folklore of Haryana, with deep social and patriotic messages—promoting education, especially for girls, and honoring freedom fighters and rural heroes.
Apart from being a celebrated performer, Mahabir Singh Guddu is also a retired educator and former Additional Director of Haryana Kala Parishad. He has mentored hundreds of young artists from rural communities, ensuring the transmission of cultural heritage to future generations.
He has represented India at international platforms in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Norway, and performed at iconic venues including Surajkund Mela, All India Inter-University Youth Festival, and various national folk festivals.
Recognized earlier with awards such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Pandit Lakhmi Chand State Award, and Haryana Kala Ratna, the Padma Shri is a crowning acknowledgment of his lifetime devotion to the arts.
Upon receiving the award from the President of India, Shri Guddu said, “This honour belongs to every artist working to keep our culture alive. I dedicate it to Haryana’s villages, where our traditions were born and still breathe.”
Shri Mahabir Singh Guddu’s Padma Shri not only recognizes individual brilliance, but also celebrates the enduring power of folk art in uniting communities and carrying forward the spirit of India’s rural soul.
