Raghuveer Khedkar, Tamasha Emperor, Honored with Padma Shri

• Senior Tamasha artist Raghuveer Khedkar, known for popularizing folk art from Sangamner, has been awarded the Padma Shri.
• Khedkar is recognized for his four decades of contribution to Tamasha, performing as a 'jester' and leading a troupe.
• He currently serves as the president of the 'Akhil Bharatiya Tamasha Parishad', an organization for Tamasha artists and owners.
• His unique 'plate dance', a fusion of Kathak and folk art, was a highlight of his youth performances.
• Khedkar has performed Tamasha at prestigious venues including Delhi during the Commonwealth Games, Sangeet Natak Akademi, and Mumbai University.

Why It Matters: Raghuveer Khedkar, a veteran Tamasha artist, receives Padma Shri for his significant contributions to folk art.