The Padma Shri awards were conferred on three renowned Gujaratis - Neurologist Dr Sudhir Shah, Sanskrit scholar Dahyabhai Shastri and folk artist Bhikhudan Gadhvi.
Sudhir Shah, 56, is based in Ahmedabad and a leading name in neurosciences in Gujarat. Currently working with a combination of science and spirituality, he looks to improve human intelligence, memory and potential. “My focus now is to build a stronger bridge between science and spirituality to enhance cognition and explore highest potential of human brain,” he said. Honoured to have received the award, he said, “With the award, my responsibility towards people and my work has increased.” Dr Shah had led the observational studies on Prahlad Jani who has reportedly survived without water and food since decades for Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science.
Dahyabhai Shastri is the founder of Brahmarshi Sanskar Dham at Nadiad and is a noted Sanskrit scholar and a former president of Vishwa Hindu Parishad. He has primarily contributed to the interpretation of Sanskrit grammar and literature. He has said that for the preservation of culture, nurturing Sanskrit, the root of a number of Indian languages is required. Currently one of the honorary sanrakshak of the organisation, he has been awarded in the past by the government of Gujarat for his contribution.
Veteran Dayra or folk tale artist Bhikhudan Gadhvi (67) hailing from Junagadh was awarded for his contribution to folk art in Gujarat. He said, “I am happy that folk literature has been appreciated by the government. I am also happy that the tradition of singing among the Gadhvi community has been acknowledged. I am really grateful for this.” Gadhvi received the Sangeet Natak Akadami Award in 2009.
