Khargone (Madhya Pradesh): Seventy-six-year-old litterateur Jagdish Joshila of Gogawan village under Khargone district was awarded the Padma Shri by President Draupadi Murmu on Tuesday.
The ceremony, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. This prestigious award recognises his significant contributions to literature and education.
Known as the father of Nimari prose, Joshila is the only Nimari novelist in India. He has authored over 56 books in Nimari and Hindi, covering themes such as Sant Singhaji, Ahilya Bai Holkar and Tantya Bhil.
His works have highlighted the culture and folk arts of the Nimar region, earning him national recognition. Coming from a humble background, Joshila initially supported his family by weaving Maheshwari sarees.
He was given the nickname 'Joshila' by renowned writer Makhanlal Chaturvedi, which reflects his vibrant writing style. In 2001, he established the Akhil Nimar Lok Parishad to promote the Nimari dialect and culture.
Joshila views this award as a tribute to the Nimar region and its language, symbolising his dedication and literary journey. Upon returning from Delhi to Indore on Thursday, Joshila will be honoured at Indore Airport at 10:45am. He will then be welcomed in various towns including Mandleshwar, concluding with a dinner at Hansraj Garden at 7:30 pm.
