Veteran folk artiste who mentored many, Joravarsinh Jadav dies at 85

Veteran Folk Artiste Joravarsinh Jadav Passes Away at 85

Padma Shri awardee and renowned Gujarati folk artiste Joravarsinh Jadav died in Ahmedabad at the age of 85. The community of musicians and dancers paid him a heartfelt tribute, performing folk music along the 200-metre route of his final journey. Many affectionately referred to him as “Bhishma Pitama.”

Jadav was a prolific writer and cultural mentor who authored 110 books and received the Padma Shri in 2019. He is survived by his wife Hemkunvarba, four daughters, and a son.

“He was unwell for the past ten days and had been admitted to a hospital due to thyroid issues. After treatment, he recovered and was discharged but later complained again and was to be re-admitted. He died around 5 am on Friday,” said his son Narendrasinh Jadav.

Born on January 10, 1940, in Akru village of Ahmedabad district, Jadav founded the Gujarat Folk Art Foundation and devoted his life to preserving traditional art. He received numerous honors, including the Meghani Suvarna Chandrak, Gujarat Sahitya Akademi Award, and Javerchand Meghani Award. He also served as Vice-chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi in Delhi.

“We would fondly call him ‘Bapu’.”

Legacy

Author’s summary: Joravarsinh Jadav, a distinguished advocate of Gujarati folk culture and mentor to many, passed away at 85, leaving behind a lasting legacy through his art, writing, and mentorship.

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The Indian Express The Indian Express — 2025-11-07

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