Bhagwan Chelaram Chawala
Bhagwan Chelaram Chawala was born on 10 June 1933 in Chiman, Balochistan [Pakistan]. He holds a Bachelor of Arts [Honours] degree and is presently engaged in private service. He is a permanent resident of 50, Sindhuwadi, M.G. Road, Ghatkopar [East], Mumbai - 400 077.
In 1960, Bhagwan Chelaram Chawala co-founded Lok Sur [Folklore] along with his brother Hiro Chawala and Mohan Chhabria, with the objective of promoting and preserving Sindhi culture, particularly its rich folklore. Under the banner of Lok Sur, numerous performances have been staged in India and internationally, including in the UAE, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The presentation of Bhagat - a unique blend of dance, song, and folk narration - became the organization’s hallmark. Through their dedicated efforts, Bhagwan and his late brother Hiro made a significant contribution to keeping traditional Sindhi folklore alive.
Key Facts
- Birth Date: 10-6-1933
- Place of Birth: Chiman, Bulochistan (Pakistan)
- Academic Attainments: B.A.(Hons.)
- Permanent Address: Mumbai, India.
- Occupation: Private Service
Significant Literary Achievements / Contributions
Bhagwan established 'Lok Sur' [Folklore] in 1960 with his brother Hiro Chawala and Mohan Chhabria. Its main objective was to promote and preserve Sindhi Culture particularly rich Sindhi folklore. Under its auspices, numerous performances have been presented not only in India but also in other parts of world, like UAE, Hong Kong, Singapore etc. Performing Bhagat [Blending of Dance, Song & narration of Folktales] has become speciality of Loksur. Bhagwan & his late brother Hiro have indeed made significant contributions in keeping our traditional folklore alive.
Recognition By Way Of Awards / Honours
- Kala Vikas Award, 1988 [At Mumbai].
- Prof. Ram Panjwani Memorial Trophy, 1989 [At Mumbai By Prof. Ram Panjwani Cultural Centre].
- Trophy for significant contributions [At Gondia, Maharashtra by Akhil Bharat Sindhi Boli in Sahit Sabha].
- ‘Gaurav’ Puraskar, 1996 [At Mumbai by Suvidha Foundation].
- Trophy for significant contribution [At Mumbai by Tips Cassettes Co.]
Additional Information
Chawala has also acted in the following Sindhi plays:
- 'Dis Paise Ja Rang', [Look! What Money Can Do].
- 'Talaq’, [Divorce], 'Bahroop', [Double faced].
- 'Yaad Kanda', [You will always Remember].
Even though the co-founders Hiro Chawala & Mohan Chhabria are no longer alive, Bhagwan has carried the 'Mission' of preserving Sindhi Culture single handedly.