Batool Begum: The Voice of Rajasthan Wins Padma Shri 2025

Rajasthan’s folk singer Batool Begum receives the Padma Shri for her unforgettable contribution to traditional Rajasthani music.

It is a proud moment for all of us in Rajasthan. One of our most talented folk singers, Batool Begum, has been awarded the Padma Shri in  2025. This is one of the highest civilian awards in India, and it celebrates her lifelong work in preserving and sharing Rajasthan’s traditional music, especially Mand singing.

Batool Begum’s voice is full of emotion and culture. When she sings, you feel the soul of the desert, the stories of our people, and the beauty of our traditions. Her performances have touched hearts not just in India but around the world.

She has also been honoured by the governments of France and Tunisia, and received the Nari Shakti Puruskar in 2022. On International Women’s Day 2021, she was given the GOPIO Achievers Award and a Certificate of Excellence.

Recently, we had the honour of meeting the Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Haribhau Kisanji. During this visit,  Manish Pareek ji and Vijaya Tai were also present. These pictures were taken during that special meeting, and we were glad to share a proud moment together with Batool Begum.

On behalf of the entire team at Jaipur Explore Magazine, I want to say a big congratulations to Batool Begum. Your music keeps our heritage alive, and we are proud to celebrate your success.

Your voice is not just music — it is Rajasthan’s soul.

– Vikram Singh Dhodhliya
Editor-in-Chief
Jaipur Explore Magazine