Celebrating Philanthropy: Rajasthan's 30th Bhama Shah Award Ceremony Highlights Educational Contributions
Honoring Philanthropy in Education
Education Minister Assures Full Utilization of Donations for Educational Development
Jaipur. Continuing the tradition of recognizing public participation and social contributions in education, the 30th State Level Bhama Shah Award Ceremony 2026 took place on Monday at the Birla Auditorium in Jaipur. Over 276 Bhama Shahs, motivators, and NRI donors were honored with awards such as Education Vibhushan, Education Bhushan, and Motivator Awards. These contributors provided a remarkable ₹318 crores in support during the fiscal year 2025-26. The event also featured the release of the Bhama Shah commendation booklet.
Deputy Chief Minister Premchand Baidya emphasized that the Bhama Shah Award Ceremony is not just a day of recognition but a celebration of the soul and culture. He remarked that the true beauty of wealth lies in its dedication to society. Rajasthan is not only a land of warriors but also of philanthropists, showcasing both valor and sacrifice. Everyone present on stage represents the legacy of the Bhama Shah tradition. While earning wealth may be a skill, using it for societal benefit is a hallmark of greatness. The identity of Rajasthan will now be defined not just by its forts but also by its schools and the progress of its girls.
Education Minister Madan Dilawar noted that the valorous tales of Mewar are incomplete without Maharana Pratap and Bhama Shah. He expressed gratitude to Bhama Shah Poonam Chand Rathi, whose support is facilitating the establishment of a government girls' military school in Jaymalsar, Bikaner. He mentioned that schools are becoming safer and more technologically advanced, with smart boards replacing traditional blackboards. To ensure that Bhama Shahs face no difficulties, a special cell will be established to operate transparently. Two representatives from the Bhama Shah community will also be included in the school management committee. Various initiatives are being undertaken by the department. He assured the Bhama Shahs that their contributions will be fully utilized for educational development.
Additional Chief Secretary Rajesh Yadav recalled the sacrifices of Maharana Pratap and Bhama Shah, thanking the philanthropists who are stepping forward for the advancement of education in the state. He provided insights into the department's efforts, mentioning the Chief Minister's Vidyadaan Fund and the Gyaan Sankalp Portal, which aim to simplify and ensure transparency in the process for Bhama Shahs.
Attendees included Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister Premchand Baidya, Education Minister Madan Dilawar, Additional Chief Secretary Rajesh Yadav, Mid-Day Meal Commissioner Vishwamohan Sharma, State Project Director and Commissioner of Samagra Shiksha Rajasthan Dr. Rashmi Sharma, Secondary Education Director Sitaram Jat, and Director of Rajasthan State Open School Mahendra Singh Khinchi, along with honored Bhama Shahs, distinguished guests, and senior officials from the School Education Department.
Recognition for Donors
The ceremony honored over 276 Bhama Shahs, motivators, and NRI donors who have significantly contributed to strengthening the education system through the construction of government school buildings, additional construction work, development of existing buildings, land provision, and other physical resources. Out of 154 Bhama Shahs, 49 received the Education Vibhushan award, while 105 were honored with the Education Bhushan award. Additionally, 99 motivators were recognized, including 23 NRI donors.