Bhopal– Padma Shri awardee Ram Sahay Pandey, a legendary figure in Rai folk dance, has passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Pandey died at a private hospital in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, after a prolonged illness. His final rites will be performed in his native village of Kanera Dev, where his extraordinary journey will come to a close.
Paying tribute to the cultural icon, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav shared a heartfelt message on social media, stating that Pandey’s “lifelong dedication to folk art elevated Rai dance to global recognition.” Yadav also acknowledged Pandey’s immense contributions as a cultural pioneer, expressing deep sorrow over the loss to both the state and the art world.
Born on March 11, 1933, in Maddhar Patha village in Sagar district, Pandey discovered his love for Rai (also spelled Raai) dance at the age of 14 during a local fair. Enchanted by its rhythm and expressive beauty, he devoted his life to mastering and promoting this traditional art form.
At the time, Rai dance was primarily associated with the Bedia community, a marginalized group historically stigmatized under the British-era Criminal Tribes Act. Despite facing widespread social prejudice—especially in the conservative Bundelkhand region, where Rai was considered unsuitable for those of Brahmin heritage—Pandey courageously broke societal barriers. Driven by passion and purpose, he worked tirelessly to dignify Rai and transform it into a respected and celebrated folk tradition.
The youngest of four siblings, Pandey was raised in a farming family. His father, Lalju Pandey, was a farmer. Despite losing his parents at a young age and growing up in poverty, Pandey’s determination and resilience propelled him to international acclaim.
In recognition of his efforts to preserve and promote Rai dance, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2022.
Pandey’s artistic journey took him across the globe as a cultural ambassador for India. He founded the Bundelkhandi Lok Nritya Natya Kala Parishad, an organization dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the economically disadvantaged Bundelkhand region. One of his significant milestones was a 1964 performance at Ravindra Bhavan in Bhopal, organized by Akashvani Bhopal and attended by distinguished dignitaries.
In 1980, he was conferred the title of Nritya Shiromani and appointed to the Tribal Folk Art Council by the Madhya Pradesh government. His international performances included appearances in Japan in 1984 and Dubai in 2006, where he mesmerized global audiences with the vibrant energy of Rai dance. (Source: IANS)
