Kumar Bahukhandi
Raipur folk artist Pranjal Singh Rajput (top right) is pictured alongside a letter from Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai commending his Bharathari performances and free training for aspiring artists. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/DPR
In a letter to the Raipur artist, the Chief Minister recognised his work as a performer and his free training for aspiring folk artists.
Key Highlights
- Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai praised Pranjal Singh Rajput’s efforts to preserve and promote Chhattisgarhi folk traditions.
- Pranjal combines Bharathari singing with acting and dance and has brought new elements to his presentation of Ahilya Gatha.
- He trains aspiring artists free of charge through ‘Lokgatha Bharathari’ and works with learners of different ages through the ‘Aakar’ camp.
Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai praised Raipur-based folk artist Pranjal Singh Rajput for carrying Bharathari singing to a new generation of performers. In a letter made public on 6 November 2026, Sai recognised the young artist’s work on stage, his academic achievements and his efforts to make folk arts training accessible.
Pranjal said the letter was a source of pride for his family and would encourage him to continue promoting Chhattisgarhi folk art. “Receiving the Chief Minister’s letter is an extremely emotional and proud moment for me and my family. He has appreciated not only my art but also my education,” he said.
Bharathari Singing, Acting and Dance
Sai noted that Pranjal had completed postgraduate studies in physics while continuing to pursue folk music. Pranjal learnt Bharathari under the guidance of Rekha Jalkshatri and now teaches the tradition to aspiring artists.
In his performances, Pranjal combines singing with acting and dance. Sai singled out his presentation of Ahilya Gatha, where the artist introduced new elements into a traditional form.
Free Training for Aspiring Artists
Pranjal offers free instruction through ‘Lokgatha Bharathari’. Through the ‘Aakar’ camp, he also shares his knowledge with learners ranging from children to senior citizens. Sai noted that artists trained by Pranjal are now performing on various platforms.
The Chief Minister linked Pranjal’s work to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to preserve India’s folk and storytelling traditions. He said young artists like Pranjal have an important role in carrying Chhattisgarh’s folk arts forward. Sai also conveyed his greetings to Pranjal’s parents, Kamlesh Singh and Mamta Rajput, and wished the artist continued success.
