Folk singer Bheru Singh Chouhan of Malwa awarded Padma Shri for his lifetime contribution to Nirgun bhakti music and social reform through Kabir’s teachings.
At 63, Bheru Singh Chouhan, the soul-stirring folk singer from Malwa, Madhya Pradesh, has received the Padma Shri 2025—India’s fourth-highest civilian award—for his invaluable contribution to the field of folk music and social reform. Deeply rooted in the Nirgun bhakti tradition and inspired by the timeless verses of Sant Kabir, Bheru Singh’s life and music echo the core values of simplicity, service, and spiritual awakening.
A Humble Beginning: Music Born from Devotion
Bheru Singh’s musical journey began in childhood, imitating his father’s bhajans in the village fields of Malwa. By his teens, he was already performing across Malwanchal, captivating villagers under banyan trees and in temple courtyards with renditions of Kabir bhajans sung in the Malvi dialect. His soulful interpretation of dohas like “Moko kahan dhunde re bande, main toh tere paas” brought spiritual philosophy to life for rural audiences.
Keeping the Nirgun Tradition Alive
For over five decades, Bheru Singh Chouhan remained committed to preserving and promoting Kabir’s Nirgun philosophy—a form of devotion that rejects idol worship and emphasizes inner spirituality. His music became a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern life, urging people to look inward and live with compassion.
Honoured by the Nation: Padma Shri 2025
On January 25, 2025, the Government of India announced Bheru Singh Chouhan as a Padma Shri awardee in the field of art, recognizing his lifelong service. “I got emotional after hearing that a small person from a small village was getting the Padma Shri,” he said in an interview with ANI. The award was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, on April 28, 2025, marking a proud moment for Ratlam, Malwa, and Madhya Pradesh.
Using Music for Social Transformation
More than just a performer, Bheru Singh Chouhan has been a voice for social change. Drawing from Kabir’s bold critiques of casteism, superstition, and hypocrisy, he incorporated messages against addiction, gender inequality, and moral decline into his songs. His powerful bhajans inspired thousands to adopt a path of sobriety, ethical living, and self-realization.
A report noted that lakhs have overcome addiction due to Bheru Singh’s influence, as he made Kabir’s teachings accessible and relevant for today’s India.
Cultural Icon of Malwa and Beyond
From village mandaps to national stages like the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Vishal Kabir Mahotsav, and Sanskrutik Kumbh, Bheru Singh’s performances have drawn massive crowds. His traditional music, recorded on CDs, cassettes, and now popularized through his YouTube channel, continues to resonate across generations. Videos like “Sant Kabir ke Shabd” have touched hearts worldwide, bringing Malwa’s spiritual heritage to the global stage.