Renowned Rai Dancer Ram Sahay Pandey Passes Away at 92
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Synopsis
On April 8, Padma Shri Ram Sahay Pandey, a revered Rai folk dancer, passed away at 92. His legacy continues to inspire generations. Born in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, he dedicated his life to transforming Rai dance into an art form celebrated globally.
Key Takeaways
- Ram Sahay Pandey's contributions to Rai dance were unparalleled.
- He broke societal barriers to promote Rai folk art.
- Pandey was awarded Padma Shri in recognition of his efforts.
- He founded the Bundelkhandi Lok Nritya Natya Kala Parishad.
- His performances crossed international borders, showcasing Indian culture.
Bhopal, April 8 (NationPress) Padma Shri Ram Sahay Pandey, a prominent figure in Rai folk dance, has sadly passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to inspire many.
After a long struggle with illness, he departed in a private hospital located in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh.
His last rites are set to take place in Kanera Dev village, marking the end of his extraordinary journey.
In honoring this cultural legend, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav shared on social media that Pandey's "lifelong commitment to folk art has brought the Rai dance to global acclaim."
He acknowledged Pandey's significant role as a cultural trailblazer and expressed deep sorrow over the irreplaceable loss to both Madhya Pradesh and the artistic community.
Born on March 11, 1933, in Maddhar Patha village of Sagar district, Pandey discovered his passion for Rai (also known as Raai) dance at the tender age of 14 during a local fair.
Enchanted by its rhythm and beauty, he dedicated his life to mastering and celebrating this traditional art form.
Despite Rai being linked to the Bedia community—a marginalized group previously affected by the Criminal Tribes Act—Pandey remained steadfast against societal prejudices and committed his life to honoring and uplifting Rai dance.
In the conservative Bundelkhand region, Rai was often deemed inappropriate for those of Brahmin lineage.
Yet, Pandey courageously challenged these social constraints, fueled by his passion and dedication to the art. His efforts transformed Rai from a stigmatized activity into a respected and celebrated dance.
The youngest of four siblings, Pandey was raised in a farming household, with his father, Lalju Pandey, working as a farmer.
Despite facing poverty and being orphaned at an early age, Pandey's resilience and determination enabled him to overcome obstacles and achieve international recognition.
In 2022, he was awarded the Padma Shri for his unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Rai dance.
Pandey's artistic journey led him across borders, representing India on prestigious global stages.
He established the Bundelkhandi Lok Nritya Natya Kala Parishad, an organization focused on nurturing and promoting the cultural heritage of the economically challenged Bundelkhand region. His achievements include a notable performance in 1964 at Ravindra Bhavan, Bhopal, organized by Akashvani Bhopal, attended by distinguished guests.
In 1980, he received the title 'Nritya Shiromani' and was appointed to the Tribal Folk Art Council by the Madhya Pradesh government.
He also performed internationally, mesmerizing audiences in Japan in 1984 and in Dubai in 2006.
