Sambhaji Bhagat

Biography

Sambhaji Bhagat (b. 1 June 1959) is a renowned folk singer, poet, playwright, and activist from Maharashtra, India. Widely regarded as a modern-day “Shahir” (folk bard), he is known for his contribution to the Ambedkarite cultural movement through revolutionary music and theatre. He has revived and popularized the tradition of Ambedkari Jalsa since 1999 and has performed across rural and urban Maharashtra with songs rooted in protest and social consciousness.

Bhagat composed the music and concept for the acclaimed play Shivaji Underground in Bhimnagar Mohalla, which received the MIFTA Award and was selected for the prestigious International Bharangam Natyam Festival organized by the National School of Drama. His song in the national award-winning film Court earned him wider recognition. He was the editor in the history Department for Balbharti (Government of Maharashtra) for five years and has over 15 years of research and public engagement on culture and art.

Sambhaji Bhagat has performed internationally and delivered guest lectures at esteemed institutions such as the University of Michigan, Columbia University, and Boston University. Through his art, he continues to challenge mainstream narratives and create space for subaltern expression.