Padma Shri awardee Bhagwandas Raikwar, also known as “Dau,” passed away at the age of 83 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhopal. He succumbed to a prolonged respiratory illness around 9.30 p.m., leaving the sports and cultural community in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in the Bundelkhand region, in mourning.
Bhagwandas Raikwar, a prominent figure in Bundelkhand, devoted his life to preserving and popularizing the traditional “akhada” culture and the ancient martial art of “lathi” fighting. In 1964, he founded the renowned “Chhatrasal Bundelkhand Akhada” in Sagar town, Madhya Pradesh, using his own resources. He trained numerous students in traditional weapons and self-defense techniques, elevating the “Bundeli” war art to global platforms when it was facing extinction.
Recognizing his significant contributions to sports and culture, the Central government honored him with the Padma Shri award on January 25 this year for his achievements in sports. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow at his passing, acknowledging Raikwar’s global promotion of Bundeli Martial Arts and his Padma Shri recognition.
When Raikwar’s health deteriorated, he initially received treatment in Sagar before being transferred to AIIMS Bhopal on April 7 for ventilator support. Despite the medical team’s efforts, he could not be saved. His last rites were conducted at Naryawali Naka Muktidham with full state honors.
