It has been announced to give Padma Shri award to Bhiklya Dhinda, a resident of Valvanda village located in Jawhar taluka of Palghar district of Maharashtra and who has become a cultural identity of the tribal society. As soon as the President announced the award, there was a wave of happiness in the entire tribal society.
Bhiklya Dhinda, who has taken the traditional musical instrument Tarpa of tribal society and its associated Tarpa dance not only across the country but also across the seven seas, has set an example through his practice. Bhiklya Dhinda, who has been playing the Tarpa instrument for almost 80 years, is keeping this tradition alive with the same dedication and energy even today at the age of 92.
It is said that Bhiklya Dhinda, who joined Tarpa instrument and dance at the age of just 12 without any formal education, gave a new identity to the tribal culture. Till now, he has been honored with hundreds of awards, but the Padmashree award, one of the country's highest civilian honours, has brought special happiness to him and his family. On this occasion, Bhiklya Dhinda said that Tarpa is the identity of the tribal society and the coming generations should save this tradition and carry it forward.
After the announcement of Padmashree award, Palghar District Magistrate Indurani Jakhar and Zilla Parishad Chief Executive Officer Manoj Ranade (IAS) visited Bhiklya Dhinda's residence and congratulated him and expressed respect. Bhiklya Dhinda appealed to the tribal society as well as the countrymen to preserve this cultural heritage. This honor received by Dhinda is not only the result of his life's hard work, but has also become a matter of pride for the entire tribal society.
Bhiklya Dhinda said that I have preserved my tradition and culture. I have received many awards because of this tribal instrument. My 400 year old lineage is engaged in this work. I am now 92 years old. I have been playing this instrument since I was only 10 years old. I worship God by playing this instrument, that is why God has blessed me.
