Sun Jan 26 20:30:19 IST 2025: ## Chhattisgarh Artisan Awarded Padma Shri for Unique Wooden Flutes
**Narayanpur, Chhattisgarh, January 26, 2025** – Pandi Ram Mandavi, a 68-year-old wood craftsman from Narayanpur district, Chhattisgarh, has been awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award. Mandavi, a member of the Muriya tribe, received the prestigious honor for his exceptional contribution to wood craftsmanship, particularly his innovative design of a unique spinning flute.
Mandavi’s journey began at age 15, and over five decades, he has transformed wood into intricate sculptures and musical instruments. His work has been exhibited across India and internationally, including at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan and Mumbai’s Jehangir Art Gallery. He credits the late poet-artist J. Swaminathan for early support, highlighting Swaminathan’s role in showcasing his art at the Tribal Arts Museum in Bhopal. A 1990s appearance on the popular television show *Surabhi* also significantly boosted his career.
Mandavi’s signature flute, unlike traditional designs, produces sound by spinning the instrument, utilizing the airflow through a system of metallic washers. Inspired by a local use of this mechanism to deter reptiles, Mandavi adapted it into a musical instrument, which has gained popularity both domestically and internationally. He noted the high demand for his flutes from Japanese schoolchildren during a Delhi exhibition.
The Padma Shri recipient hopes his recognition will inspire other artisans in Bastar and provide them with greater market access. He advocates for government policies to support artisans and plans to establish a museum to preserve traditional art forms, currently working with a team of 15-20 individuals, including his sons, to revive the local Ghotul, a traditional tribal dormitory. Mandavi’s work ranges from tiny combs to large sculptures and even architectural elements. He is the sole recipient of a Padma award from Chhattisgarh this year.
First Piper 