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Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh is a renowned Indian painter, poet, and art critic, born on February 16, 1937, in Surendranagar, Gujarat. He has been a significant figure in Indian contemporary art, blending traditional and modern artistic styles. Sheikh has received prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri (1983) and Padma Bhushan (2014), for his contributions to the field of art. His works are displayed in major galleries such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.
BiographyHis early life, education at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, and his artistic journey.
Art StyleHis unique approach to storytelling through paintings, including his famous Mappa Mundi series.
Awards & RecognitionHis contributions to literature and art, including his surrealist poetry collection Athwa.
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Shahabuddin Rathod is a celebrated Gujarati scholar, teacher, and humorist, born on December 9, 1937, in Thangadh, Gujarat. He is widely known for his humorous storytelling and has authored several books, including Mare Kya Lakhavu Hatu?, Hasata-Hasavata, and Hasyano Varghodo. His works have been adapted into television and films, such as Papad Pol – Shahabuddin Rathod Ki Rangeen Duniya. He was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2020 for his contributions to literature and education.
BiographyHis early life, teaching career, and transition into humor writing.
Books & WorksA showcase of his literary contributions.
Awards & RecognitionHis achievements, including the Padma Shri.
Media & AdaptationsHis influence on TV and film.
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Muktaben Pankajkumar Dagli is a renowned social worker from Gujarat, India, dedicated to supporting blind and differently-abled individuals. Born on July 2, 1962, in Nana Ankadia, Amreli, she lost her eyesight due to meningitis at the age of seven. Despite this challenge, she pursued education and later founded Pragnachakshu Mahila Seva Kunj, a non-profit organization that provides education, accommodation, and vocational training to blind girls.
BiographyHer early life, education, and journey in social work.
Social InitiativesHer contributions to blind welfare, including the establishment of schools and training centers.
Awards & RecognitionShe was honored with the Padma Shri in 2019 for her impactful work.
Media & InfluenceHer story has been featured in various publications and even praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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Jagdish Trivedi is a renowned humorist, author, poet, actor, philosopher, and philanthropist from Gujarat, India. He is widely recognized for his mastery of the Dairo art form, a traditional Gujarati style of comedic storytelling. Over the years, he has performed in over 3,000 shows across 30 countries, bringing Gujarati humor to a global audience. His contributions to literature and social welfare earned him the Padma Shri award in 2024.
BiographyHis early life in Wadhwan, Surendranagar district, and his journey in humor and literature.
Art & LiteratureHis extensive work in Gujarati humor, including his performances and books.
PhilanthropyHis commitment to donating a significant portion of his earnings to education and medical facilities for the underprivileged.
Awards & RecognitionHis achievements, including the Padma Shri and other honors.
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Lavjibhai Parmar is a renowned weaver artist from Gujarat, India, specializing in the Tangaliya weaving tradition, a 700-year-old craft. He belongs to the Dangsia community and has dedicated over four decades to preserving and promoting this intricate handloom art. His efforts in training artisans and reviving Tangaliya weaving earned him the Padma Shri award in 2025.
BiographyHis early life, journey in weaving, and contributions to the art.
Tangaliya WeavingThe history and significance of this traditional craft.
Awards & RecognitionHis achievements, including the National Award (1990) and Sant Kabir Award (2019).
Community ImpactHis role in training artisans and establishing a Common Facility Center to support weavers.
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