Celebrating India’s rich artistic traditions, the Government of India has conferred the Padma Shri on Shri Godawari Singh from Uttar Pradesh for his remarkable contribution to the field of Art, particularly in the preservation and promotion of traditional folk forms.
A veteran artist and custodian of rural cultural heritage, Shri Godawari Singh has dedicated his life to nurturing folk theatre, music, and storytelling, with a special emphasis on Nautanki — one of North India’s oldest and most vibrant folk performance styles. His powerful stage presence, soulful singing, and commitment to authentic storytelling have earned him widespread respect in cultural circles across the Hindi heartland.
With a career spanning several decades, Shri Singh has not only performed in hundreds of villages and towns but also trained new generations in the art of Nautanki, ensuring that this traditional form continues to live on in modern times. His work bridges the gap between oral traditions and formal performance, preserving narratives that are deeply rooted in local identity and social values.
Reacting to the honour, Shri Singh said, “This recognition belongs to the people, the artists, and the tradition that shaped me. I will continue to serve the art that gave me my voice.”
Artists, cultural institutions, and folk enthusiasts have hailed the recognition, describing him as “a pillar of folk expression in Uttar Pradesh” and “a voice of India’s living heritage.”
By awarding the Padma Shri to Shri Godawari Singh, the nation salutes a true guardian of India’s artistic soul and a torchbearer of timeless tradition.
