Alwar (Rajasthan) [India], January 25 (ANI): The Centre on Sunday announce that Folk artist Gafruddin Mewati will be honoured with the Padma Shri award in 2026 for his distinguished contributions to the field of Art.

He will recieve the honour - the the fourth-highest civilian award of the country.

Speaking to ANI, Mewati expressed his happiness, stating that the struggles of his life have finally yielded results and that he has finally received this recognition.

'I am very happy that the struggle of my life has finally yielded results, and I have received this recognition... For seven years, I went from village to village, learning and preserving this art with my father. I have taught it to many children and to others. This is my eighth generation... My children are ready; my son and grandsons are learning as well... This tradition has been very important to me... I have also performed Ghazals, Qawwalis, folk songs of Braj, Bhajans, Mewati, and Doha Dhani...' said Mewati.

Gafruddin Mewati is among the select folk artists of Rajasthan who have kept Rajasthani culture alive through their art, performing in small villages and hamlets as well as on prestigious national stages. He is especially renowned for playing the Bhapang and narrating stories through traditional folk songs. The Bhapang, a folk instrument that is now part of a fading tradition, has become both Mewati's unique identity and his primary artistic medium.

Another folk artist from Rajasthan, Taga Ram Bheel from Jaisalmer has been conferred with the Padma Shri this year.

The Centre on the eve of the Republic Day today released the list of winners of the Padma Award this year.

This year, the President has approved conferment of 131 Padma Awards -- 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri Awards.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced the awardees for the Padma Awards. These awards are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of a high order), and Padma Shri (for distinguished service in any field).

The awards recognise excellence across various disciplines, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.

The Padma Vibhushan was conferred posthumously to former Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandhan and veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra Singh Deol for public affairs and art. Additionally, the Padma Bhushan was awarded to legendary playback singer Alka Yagnik, veteran politician Shibu Soren, and renowned actor Mammootty.

These Padma Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March or April every year. (ANI)