Kolhapur resident Sagar Bagade, 57, who is a choreographer, art director, sculptor, and esteemed teacher, has been chosen to receive the National Teachers' Award in 2024. This prestigious recognition will be bestowed upon him by President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi on September 5. Bagade proudly states that he is the only art teacher from Maharashtra to have been honored with this award since its establishment. His journey from studying at an orphan school in Pandharpur to holding two Asia Pacific Book of World Records to now being selected for the National Teachers' Award has set a remarkable standard in the field of arts.

Reflecting on his childhood experiences, Sagar Bagade recounts, "My upbringing was unique compared to others. Discovered on a railway track at Solapur railway station in 1968, I was taken in by a kind man who enrolled me at Navrangi Balak Ashram in Pandharpur. I spent my formative years there. Subsequently, the then tehsildar of Panhala, Chitranjan Bagade, adopted me, marking the beginning of my life with them. Unfortunately, they passed away when I was in 10th grade, leaving me once again in the struggles of orphanhood."

Regarding his journey in the arts and college life, Bagade shares, "I struggled academically, but in 10th grade, a new art teacher, Mali sir, encouraged me to pursue art seriously. Following his guidance, I enrolled at Kalavishwa Mahavidyalaya in Sangli for junior college. During the academic year 1986-1987, movies like ‘Love 86' and ‘Ilzaam' were released. Inspired by Govinda's dance in these films, I felt compelled to learn to dance myself, igniting my passion for dance and art simultaneously. The positive responses to my dancing and artistic endeavors from people further fueled my aspirations."

He goes on to recount his professional journey, including stints in Mumbai, Vadodara, and eventually returning to Sangli to teach dance. After his marriage, Bagade successfully completed his...After earning my diploma in art, I began my career as an art teacher at New Model English School, under the Swami Vivekanand Shikshan Sanstha in Kolhapur. I began to explore different art forms during this time. In 2001, I became an art teacher at New Education Society, and later at Sou. S.M. Lohia High School. It was here that I delved into various artistic expressions, including choreographing group dances and working as a dance director for a popular television series, gaining recognition in the city. Gradually, I expanded my artistic endeavors to include dance, sculpture, and theater. Collaborating with 450 students, I achieved two Asia Pacific World Records, elevating both my school and Kolhapur's reputation on the international stage.

Reflecting on my national award, I initially harbored doubts about the nomination process, believing such accolades to be prearranged. Surprisingly, it was my students who took the initiative to submit my nomination. With the support of my students, school administration, and education officer, I navigated the interview process and successfully secured the distinction of being the first art teacher from Maharashtra to receive this prestigious award. Looking ahead to retirement, I aspire to serve children living in remote villages and Dhangarwadas communities.