New Delhi/Patna: Bihar’s rich theatrical and folk-cultural traditions received national recognition as President Droupadi Murmu honoured three senior artists from the state with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2024 and 2025.
Actor-director Suresh Kumar Hajju, Maithili theatre veteran Shiv Narayan Jha ‘Kunal’, and folk instrumentalist Mahendra Ram were among 108 artists from across the country recognised at the ceremony.
Each awardee received a Tamrapatra, citation and cash prize of ₹1 lakh in recognition of their contribution to Indian performing arts.
Shiv Narayan Jha ‘Kunal’: A Voice of Maithili Theatre
Shiv Narayan Jha ‘Kunal’ is one of the senior-most figures associated with Maithili theatre. Over several decades, he has contributed to experimentation and the development of new theatrical forms while helping preserve the region’s traditional performance culture.
His contribution to popularising the Kirtaniya style of Maithili theatre has been particularly significant. Through his work as a theatre practitioner, he has also played a role in passing Maithili theatrical traditions to younger generations.
Suresh Hajju: From Bidesiya to Gandhi on Stage
Patna-based Suresh Kumar Hajju has established himself as both an actor and director. He has been associated with theatre groups including Vishal Natya Manch, Nirman Kala Manch and HMT, Patna, and has contributed to their development.
During his long theatrical career, Hajju has portrayed a wide range of characters, including Batohi in Bidesiya, Durjan Singh in Bakri and Mahatma Gandhi.
His portrayal of Gandhi has become one of the most recognised aspects of his theatrical work.
A particularly memorable moment came during the award ceremony when President Murmu asked Hajju, “You are the one who plays Gandhi, aren’t you?”
After Hajju confirmed it, the President introduced him to Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
Hajju later asked how the President knew about his work. According to him, Murmu smiled and said she had seen a video of his performance. The interaction left the veteran theatre artist visibly emotional and excited.
Mahendra Ram: Keeping Rasanchauki Alive for 55 Years
Madhubani-based folk instrumentalist Mahendra Ram was also honoured for his contribution to Rasanchauki, a traditional musical form associated with Mithila.
Ram has dedicated nearly 55 years to performing and preserving the tradition. Known as a Kara and Survadak artist, he has also worked as a guru, helping transmit the folk tradition to younger generations.
His recognition highlights the importance of traditional folk artists who have continued to preserve regional cultural forms through decades of practice.
National Recognition for Bihar’s Cultural Heritage
The recognition of Hajju, Jha and Ram goes beyond individual achievement. Their awards represent national acknowledgement of Bihar’s diverse theatrical and folk traditions.
After decades of dedication to their respective art forms, the three artists have brought Bihar’s cultural heritage to a wider national platform, underscoring the enduring contribution of the state to India’s performing arts.
