Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai: Gujarat’s Folk Maestro Honoured with Padma Shri 2026
In a poignant celebration of India’s cultural heritage and the unsung heroes who sustain it, Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai, an acclaimed folk artist from Gujarat, has been selected for the Padma Shri 2026 — one of India’s highest civilian honours. Recognised for his extraordinary contributions to the field of art and music, Kasambhai’s life reflects a deep commitment to folk traditions, community, and artistic excellence.
Roots and Early Life
Born on 11 August 1932 in Vadodara, Gujarat, Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai developed an early passion for music and folk performance. From modest beginnings, he immersed himself in the vibrant musical traditions of his region — particularly the rhythms and soulful expression of the dholak, a traditional Indian hand-drum revered in devotional, folk and celebratory music.
Locally and affectionately known as “Haji Ramakadu” or sometimes lovingly referred by fans as Haji Ramkoḍu — a term invoking both affection and playful admiration — Kasambhai became a ubiquitous musical presence in Gujarat’s cultural landscape.
Musical Journey: Transforming the Dholak
While the dholak may be a familiar percussion instrument across many Indian musical forms, Mir Hajibhai’s genius was in elevating it from rhythmic accompaniment to front-seat prominence. He masterfully adapted the instrument to genres such as bhajans (devotional songs), ghazals (poetic musical narratives), qawwalis (Sufi devotional music) and Gujarati folk performances, allowing the dholak to speak as a lead voice rather than a background rhythm.
Through this innovation, he expanded not just the technical possibilities of the instrument but also its emotional resonance in live performances. Kasambhai’s style blended precision with spontaneity, making each performance a memorable and deeply personal encounter for audiences. This helped cement his reputation as an icon of folk percussion.
A Career of Extensive Performances
Over several decades, Mir Hajibhai graced thousands of stages across India. Estimates suggest that he has performed in more than 3,000 programs, many of which were charity events where proceeds were dedicated to community service — notably cow welfare (gau seva) and other charitable causes.
His artistic tours extended beyond Gujarat into states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Delhi, and he even performed for dignitaries and at prestigious venues, including events linked with the Indian President’s House (Rashtrapati Bhavan).
Such extensive touring not only broadened his own influence but also brought the rhythms of Gujarat’s folk traditions to diverse audiences across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
Cultural Significance and Recognition
Kasambhai’s influence is not merely artistic but also cultural. He became a symbol of folk resilience, ensuring traditional music stayed vibrant in an era of rapid change. His performances often fused entertainment with community engagement and celebration of heritage.
In acknowledgment of his contributions, he received numerous accolades even before the Padma Shri, including honors from the Indian Music and Drama Academy early in his career and recognition from religious and cultural institutions in his home state.
Padma Shri 2026 — A Fitting Tribute
Announced on January 25, 2026, ahead of India’s 77th Republic Day, the government’s decision to confer the Padma Shri award on Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai places him among a distinguished group of individuals whose exceptional work has enriched Indian society. These awards are traditionally given to individuals who have demonstrated excellence and commitment in their respective fields — whether arts, sciences, social service, literature, or beyond.
Kasambhai was specifically selected for his contributions in the field of Art, joining an esteemed cohort of cultural luminaries from across India, each recognised for elevating the nation’s cultural richness.
His Own Words: Joy and Humility
Reflecting on this pinnacle of recognition, Kasambhai reportedly expressed deep gratitude, describing the honour as the fulfilment of his life’s journey. He acknowledged the role of his community and his predecessors in shaping his musical path, underscoring a lifelong dedication to art and service.
His reaction resonates as that of an artist rooted in humility — seeing recognition as shared with all those who embraced, supported, and participated in his musical journey.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai’s influence extends beyond performances. As a folk music ambassador, he inspired younger generations to explore traditional music forms and value cultural roots. In a world increasingly attuned to global pop culture, his work stands as a reminder of the depth, diversity and enduring vibrancy of India’s indigenous artistic traditions.
For scholars, performers, and music lovers, his life offers a case study in how regional art forms can evolve, endure and garner national acclaim without sacrificing authenticity.
Conclusion
The award of the Padma Shri 2026 to Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai is more than a personal achievement — it is a tribute to folk cultures, often marginalized in mainstream discourse, but foundational to the cultural identity of communities across India. Through innovation, dedication, and sheer artistic passion, Kasambhai elevated the humble dholak and Gujarati folk music to national prominence.
In celebrating his journey, India acknowledges the power of grassroots art — the rhythms that connect communities, honour traditions, and enrich the nation’s cultural mosaic.
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