New Delhi

Among the extraordinary Indians and foreigners who have been awarded the coveted Padma Awards on India's 76th republic Day. is folk singer Batool Begum from Rajasthan who, through her songs, has not only promoted communal harmony, but also smashed social stereotypes and glass ceiling.

Begum Batool has been awarded the Padma Shri in recognition of her artistic achievements and cultural preservation of Rajasthan’s folk music

Batool Begum was born in a Muslim family in Kerap village of the Nagaur district of Rajasthan. She comes from the Mirasi community, which is considered socially and economically backward. Her family had little resources to lead a comfortable life but Batool showed her interest in music in her childhood.

When she was just 8 years old, she started singing bhajans. Being a Muslims singing with devotion to deities like Rama and Ganapati revered by the Hindus, she not only set an example of religious tolerance but also challenged conservatism.

Begum Batool receiving Nari Shakti Award from President Ram Nath Kovid

This earned her the sobriquet of "Begum of Bhajans". She studied only till and got married at the age of 16.

Her husband Firoz Khan was a conductor in State Roadways. They parented three sons but Batool continued her passion of music amid responsibilities as a wife and a mother.

Her singing was not only limited to Mand and Bhajans,  she also learned to play traditional musical instruments like Dhol, Dholak and Tabla.

Her dedication and hard work took her from small concerts to international platforms.
Batool Begum earned fame not only in India but all over the world through her singing. She performed in countries like America, Britain, France, Tunisia, Italy, Switzerland, and Germany.

Begum Batool with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan (File)

Her name is also associated with an international fusion folk music band called 'Bollywood Klezmer', which presents cultural fusion by bringing artists from different religions and cultures on one platform. Through this band, she worked to promote communal harmony and diversity.

Her art has also been recognized by the governments of France and Tunisia. Her Mand singing and bhajans have given her an identity that transcends religious and cultural boundaries and gives the message of humanity and harmony.
Batool Begum is not only a great singer, but she is also a supporter of modern thoughts. She strongly advocates girl education and women empowerment. For the last five decades, she has been promoting communal harmony and social harmony through her singing.

Her art has proved that music is not bound by the boundaries of any religion or caste. She has become a symbol of religious tolerance and social unity.

Batool Begum's life is a story of struggle, dedication and success. Despite difficulties, she kept her art alive and took it to such a level where it can become an inspiration for the society. Being honored with the Padma Shri award gives a national recognition to her contribution.

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Batool Begum was awarded the Nari Shakti Award by the then President Ram Nath Kovind in 2021. Apart from this, she has also been honored by many foreign governments and institutions.