Kolhapur resident Sagar Bagade (57), known for his roles as a choreographer, art director, sculptor, artist, and teacher, has been honored with the prestigious National Teachers' Award for 2024. The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will present him with the award in New Delhi on September 5. Bagade proudly states that he is the sole art teacher from Maharashtra to receive this esteemed recognition since its establishment. His remarkable journey began at an orphanage in Pandharpur, eventually leading him to achieve two Asia Pacific Book of World Records and now, the National Teachers' Award, marking a significant milestone in the field of arts.
Recalling his childhood experiences, Bagade shares, "My upbringing was unique compared to others. Discovered abandoned on a railway track at Solapur railway station in 1968, a kind individual placed me at Navrangi Balak Ashram in Pandharpur, where I spent my early years. Subsequently, the then tehsildar of Panhala, Chitranjan Bagade, adopted me, kickstarting a journey marked by their eventual passing when I was in the 10th grade, reverting me back to an orphan status, initiating a renewed struggle for survival."
Reflecting on his passion for the arts and academic endeavors, Bagade explains, "Having struggled academically, an art teacher, Mali sir, in my 10th grade encouraged me to pursue art seriously. Following his counsel, I enrolled at Kalavishwa Mahavidyalaya in Sangli for junior college. It was during the years 1986-1987, coinciding with the releases of the films ‘Love 86’ and ‘Ilzaam’, featuring the dance performances of Govinda, that inspired me to explore dance. This period marked the commencement of my dual journey as a dancer and artist, garnering praise and approval from audiences, fueling my passion further."
"Subsequently, I ventured to Mumbai and later Vadodara for employment opportunities. I gained valuable experience working as an assistant with Gautam Rajadhyaksha, and later as a 'worker' with art director Nitin Desai on two film projects. Returning to Sangli, I pursued teaching dance classes," Bagade added.
"After getting married, I pursued my higher education. Bagade has now been selected for the National Teachers' Award 2024.."I obtained my Art diploma and began my career as an art teacher at New Model English School, which is part of Swami Vivekanand Shikshan Sanstha in Kolhapur. I started exploring different forms of art during my time there. In 2001, I continued my journey as an art teacher at New Education Society and then at Sou. S.M. Lohia High School. In these positions, I had the opportunity to experiment with various art forms, including choreographing mob dances and serving as a dance director for a television series, which garnered attention and recognition in the city. Gradually, I expanded my expertise in arts, dance, sculpture, and theatre. I achieved two Asia Pacific World Records with the help of 450 students, which brought international recognition to my school and Kolhapur. Reflecting on receiving a national award, Bagade commented, "I had never nominated myself for an award before, as I believed they were not genuine. However, this time, my students took the initiative to submit my nomination. With the support of my students, school administration, and education officer, I successfully navigated the selection process and became the first art teacher from Maharashtra to be honored with this award. After retiring, my goal is to work with children living in extremely remote areas and in Dhangarwadas."
