TRIBAL musical instrument maker and wood craftsman Pandiram Mandavi, a resident of Garhbengal village in Narayanpur district, who brought national and international acclaim to the cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh, has been conferred the Padma Shri Award for 2025. President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious civilian honour at a formal ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. With this distinction, 68-year-old Mandavi has become the second person from Narayanpur district to receive the Padma Shri. In 2024, traditional Vaidya Hemchand Manjhi had received the same recognition for his contribution to indigenous medicine.

 

For over five decades, Mandavi has been preserving and promoting the endangered folk musical instruments and woodcraft traditions of Chhattisgarh. His craftsmanship and performance on instruments such as the Bansuri, Tehandond, Dusir, Sing ki Todi, Kotodka and Usud reflect a rare mastery. These instruments, brought to life through his artistry, not only sustain the soulful essence of Chhattisgarhi folk songs but also stand as symbols of the region’s rich cultural identity. Mandavi's contribution goes beyond performance. He has been actively involved in passing down this heritage to the younger generation, ensuring continuity of tradition. His work has travelled far beyond Indian borders—he has represented India as part of cultural delegations in several countries, including Russia, France, Germany, Japan and Italy. Through his international presence, he has elevated the traditional arts of Chhattisgarh and India on global cultural platforms.