Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Kishore Kumar, the multi-talented singer and actor born in Khandwa, was a legendary artist. Although 39 years have passed since his demise, Kishore Kumar continues to live on in the hearts of his admirers through his timeless songs and memorable performances. The Madhya Pradesh government confers the prestigious Kishore Kumar Samman every year on a talented artist in memory of the versatile performer.
Actor Shri Raghubir Yadav has been selected for the 2026 award. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that development works were progressing across various sectors in Khandwa. He added that an airport would be established in the city soon, facilitating travel for devotees and tourists visiting Omkareshwar, a prominent religious destination in the district.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav congratulated Shri Raghubir Yadav on receiving this year’s Kishore Kumar National Award. At the ceremony, the actor was honoured with a cash award of ₹5 lakh, a citation, an angavastram and a memento. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav addressed the Kishore Kumar National Award Ceremony and musical evening held in Khandwa virtually from the Chief Minister’s Residence in Bhopal.
Kishore Kumar’s Unique Style Will Always Be Remembered
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that singer and actor Kishore Kumar had a special attachment to his birthplace, Khandwa. He would often say, “We will eat milk and jalebi and settle down in Khandwa.” He said that Kishore Kumar sang numerous songs that also conveyed profound messages about life. “Learn to smile while crying, and cry while smiling…” and “Life is a beautiful journey…” are among the memorable songs that continue to resonate with audiences. Kishore Kumar’s distinctive style in the film Padosan remains unforgettable. Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi was another significant film in his career, featuring his brothers Ashok Kumar and Anoop Kumar alongside him. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav paid tribute to the legendary artist.
Raghubir Yadav’s Talent Is Exceptional
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Madhya Pradesh-born actor Shri Raghubir Yadav possesses exceptional talent. He gained widespread recognition for playing the village head in the web series Panchayat. Earlier, he won acclaim for portraying Budhia in Peepli Live, Bhura in Lagaan, and the title character in Mungerilal Ke Haseen Sapne. His distinctly rural style evokes the earthy fragrance of the soil and reflects the richness of rural life. Shri Raghubir Yadav has also lent his voice to the popular Madhya Pradesh Tourism jingle, “MP Ajab Hai, Sabse Gajab Hai.” The Madhya Pradesh government considers it an honour to confer the Kishore Kumar National Award on him.
Tribal Affairs Minister Dr. Vijay Shah, Minister of State for Culture Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, MLA Smt. Kanchan Mukesh Tanve, MLA Shri Narayan Singh Patel, MLA Smt. Chhaya More, Mayor Smt. Amrita Amar Yadav, former MLA Shri Devendra Verma and other public representatives attended the Kishore Kumar National Award Ceremony.