58th Jnanpith Award- President Droupadi Murmu Honours Gulzar and Rambhadracharya

The legendary lyricist of the century, Gulzar, began his life journey as ‘Sampooran Singh Kalra’ and went on to become ‘Gulzar’—leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and cinema through his words. On Friday, May 16, President Droupadi Murmu honoured celebrated poet-lyricist Gulzar and renowned Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya with the ‘58th Jnanpith Award’ for the year 2023. However, Gulzar Sahab could not attend the ceremony due to health issues.

Rambhadracharya, Head of Tulsi Peeth, Honoured for His Contributions

Jagadguru Rambhadracharya (75), the founder and head of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, is a highly respected Hindu spiritual leader, scholar, and the author of over 240 books and scriptures, including four epic poems. At the ceremony, he was presented with a citation, a cash award, and a bronze replica of Goddess Saraswati (Vagdevi).

Speaking at the event, President Droupadi Murmu praised Rambhadracharya’s “multifaceted contribution” to Sanskrit literature and society.

President Droupadi Murmu Applauds Rambhadracharya's Legacy

“Rambhadracharya ji has set a remarkable example of excellence. He is truly multi-talented, and his contributions are vast and diverse,” President Murmu said. “Despite being physically challenged, he has served literature and society through his deep insight—or we may call it divine vision. He is a natural poet. His body of work in Sanskrit literature is both abundant and outstanding. He is an extraordinary devotee of the divine language and holds a special place among the finest interpreters of Indian traditions.”

President Droupadi Murmu Lauds Gulzar’s Artistic Legacy

President Murmu also extended her congratulations and well wishes to Gulzar Sahab for a speedy recovery. She said, “I send him my heartfelt wishes for a full recovery and hope he continues to actively contribute to the fields of art, literature, society, and the nation. Gulzar Sahab has remained devoted to the craft of literature for decades. One can say that he is a writer who has brought tenderness into the midst of harsh realities. Those involved in creative fields can learn a lot from his artistic and literary work.”

Gulzar’s Excellence in Urdu Literature

Gulzar’s contribution to Indian literature, especially Urdu writing, is truly outstanding. Some of his most memorable songs include “Maine Tere Liye” from Anand and “Dil Dhoondta Hai” from Mausa. He has won the National Film Award seven times. Gulzar received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2002, the Padma Bhushan in 2004, and in 2008, he won an Academy Award and a Grammy Award for the song “Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire*. In 2013, he was honoured with the **Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Indian cinema’s highest recognition.

Gulzar’s Popular Shayari (Poetry)

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Did You Know Gulzar Wrote the Lyrics for the ‘Motu Patlu’ Theme Song?

For your information, ‘Motu Patlu’ has been one of the most-read cartoon comics in the world through ‘Lotpot’ magazine for many years. Over three generations have enjoyed the humorous adventures of this duo. But did you know that the catchy theme song of the animated ‘Motu Patlu’ series was penned by none other than Gulzar Sahab? Every word of the song was written by him with great passion and precision.

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