Kolhapur resident Sagar Bagade, aged 57, is a versatile individual known for his roles as a choreographer, art director, sculptor, artist, and esteemed teacher. He has been chosen to receive the National Teachers' Award in 2024. The prestigious award will be conferred upon him by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, in a ceremony taking place in New Delhi on September 5. Bagade proudly mentions that he is the sole art teacher from Maharashtra to achieve this honor since its establishment.
From his humble beginnings at an orphan school in Pandharpur to earning two Asia Pacific Book of World Records, and now being recognized with a National Teachers' Award, Bagade has truly left a lasting impact in the field of arts. Reflecting on his early life, Bagade shares, "My upbringing was exceptional compared to others. Discovered on a railway platform at Solapur station in 1968, a benevolent individual enrolled me at Navrangi Balak Ashram in Pandharpur, where I spent my formative years. Subsequently, I was adopted by the then tehsildar of Panhala, Chitranjan Bagade, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Tragedy struck when they passed away during my 10th-grade year, thrusting me back into the challenges of orphanhood."
Regarding his artistic journey and college experiences, Bagade recalls, "Academically weak in my youth, I received guidance from a new art teacher, Mali sir, during my 10th grade. Encouraged by his counsel, I pursued admission at Kalavishwa Mahavidyalaya in Sangli for my junior college education. It was during the release of 'Love 86' and 'Ilzaam' films in 1986-1987 that I was inspired by Govinda's dance sequences, fueling my passion for dance and art. The positive reception of my artistic expressions by viewers provided me with encouragement and motivation."
Subsequently, I ventured to Mumbai and Vadodara for employment opportunities. I initially assisted Gautam Rajadhyaksha and later worked as a support staff with art director Nitin Desai on various film projects. Returning to Sangli, I commenced teaching dance classes."
Following my marriage, I pursued further education...After completing my art diploma, I began my career as an art teacher at New Model English School, under the Swami Vivekanand Shikshan Sanstha in Kolhapur. It was here that I started exploring different art forms. In 2001, I transitioned to teaching at New Education Society, and later at Sou. S.M. Lohia High School, where I had the opportunity to delve into diverse artistic expressions. I had the chance to choreograph mob dances and work as a dance director for a television series, gaining recognition in the city. Gradually, I expanded my artistic endeavors into dance, sculpture, and theater. Alongside my 450 students, I achieved two Asia Pacific World Records, elevating both my school and Kolhapur to international acclaim.
Reflecting on receiving a national award, Bagade shared, "I had never applied for awards, as I felt they were predetermined. In a surprising turn, my students took the initiative to nominate me for the honor. With the support of my students, school leadership, and education officials, I navigated the interview process successfully, becoming the first art teacher from Maharashtra to be bestowed with this award. Upon retiring, my goal is to work with children in remote villages and Dhangarwadas, providing them with artistic opportunities."
