Arjun Singh Shekhawat
Arjun Singh Shekhawat is an Indian writer, educator, and social activist from Pali, Rajasthan, known for his extensive contributions to Rajasthani language and literature, particularly focusing on tribal culture. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2021 by the Government of India for his contributions to literature and education.
Early life and education
Dr. Shekhawat was born in the Pali district of Rajasthan. He holds multiple degrees, including M.A. in Hindi and Rajasthani, B.Ed., Ayurved Ratna, Vaidya Acharya, R.E.S., and R.M.P. He began his career as a teacher and later served as a Deputy District Education Officer.Literary career
Shekhawat has authored over 14 books, edited three, and contributed to 19 anthologies. His work primarily focuses on the tribal and folk culture of Rajasthan.Some of his prominent works include:Anbolya Bol Rajasthani Vrat Kathavan Malopanna Sanskriti Ra Vadera Bhakhra Bhomiya Aajado Ro Alakh Rajathani Gadhya Sangrah Aadavalo Ardayo Mahuda Ra Phool Prem MeinBaar Ek Halki Si Ek Jan Avishkar Vishwa Ka Dwitiya Edition - P.L. Mistry Sanskriti Ki Vasiyat The Tribal Culture of Garasia
He has also translated various literary works into Rajasthani, including:
- Russian folk tales
- Works of Mahasweta Devi
- Green style literature
- Malayalam poetry and English stories
Activism and advocacy
Dr. Shekhawat has been actively involved in the movement demanding the inclusion of Rajasthani in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. He is the Vice President of Akhil Bharatiya Rajasthani Bhasha Manyata Samiti. In 2021, he stated that he would return the Padma Shri if Rajasthani is not officially recognized.Awards and recognition
- Padma Shri, for literature and education
- D.Litt. from Rajasthani Manch
- Man of the Year by ABI, USA
- Gauri Shankar Kamlesh Rajasthani Sahitya Award by Gyan Bharti, Kota
- Shivchand Bharati Award by Rajasthan Sahitya Akademi
- Mahendra Janodia Award by Rajasthan Ratnakar, Delhi
- Various civil honors and literary felicitations across India
Representation and cultural work
Shekhawat has represented Rajasthan in national and international literary forums:- Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Delhi
- Tribal Academy, Tejgadh
- Indian Council for Cultural Relations
- Sahitya Akademi, Delhi
- INTACH and Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centers
- International conferences on tribal literature in Odisha, Gujarat, and London
- Organized a major public conference in Kheml in support of Rajasthani language recognition
Broadcast and media
His literary and cultural works have been broadcast on All India Radio and Doordarshan. He directed documentaries on tribal culture that were aired nationally under AMRT, and many of his interviews, lectures, and recitations have featured in media.Associations
He is associated with multiple cultural and literary bodies including:- District Convener, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage
- Founder-President, Rajasthani Gyanpeeth and Adivasi Academy
- Trustee, Narayan Seva Sansthan
- Former President, Pali Zilla Shikshak Sangh