Kag Vandana

Kag Vandana 2025 – A Divine Evening of Bhakti & Lok Sangeet

The Zaverchand Meghani Auditorium in Sardarnagar, Bhavnagar, resonated with the soulful bhajans of the legendary Gujarati poet Padma Shri Dula Bhaya Kag (affectionately known as Kagbapu) during a Lokdayro event titled "Kag Vandana". Organized on November 25, 2025, to mark his 122nd birth anniversary, the program was hosted by the Kavishri Dula Kag Memorial Trust with support from the Commissioner of Youth Services and Cultural Activities, Gandhinagar (Govt. of Gujarat).

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Yuvaraj Saheb Jayvirrajsinhji Gohil from the Bhavnagar royal family, Bhavnagar District Collector Dr. Manish Bansal, Mayor Bharatbhai Barad, and Pujya Girish Aapa Sonaldham-Madhada. In his address, Yuvaraj Saheb announced that from next year onward, "Kag Vandana" will be hosted at the historic Nilambag Palace, taking the tribute to a more majestic level in recognition of the deep historical bond between Kagbapu and the royal family.

Kagbapu's great-grandson, Ishbhai Kag, who also successfully coordinated the event, delivered an emotional speech. He said, "On this sacred land of Gohilwad, celebrating Kagbapu's birth anniversary without remembering the revered His Highness Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Gohil is impossible. The deep bond of affection between Kagbapu and Maharaja Saheb continues to fragrance the air even today. As the fourth generation of these two great personalities – Yuvaraj Saheb Jayvirrajsinhji Gohil and myself, Ish Kag – we have been able to preserve this tradition, and I take immense pride in that."

Renowned scholars, including former Head of Gujarati Department at Saurashtra University, Dr. Ambadanbhai Rohdia, and Former Vice Chancellor of Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University, poet Vinodbhai Joshi, served as chief speakers. They shared insightful and heartfelt reflections on Kagbapu's literary contributions and enduring legacy.

Other notable attendees included Bhavnagar City BJP President Krunalbhai Shah, Bhavnagar District BJP President Digvijaysinh Gohil, Bhavnagar Municipal Standing Committee Chairman Rajubhai Rabdiya, and Municipal School Board Chairman Nikunjbhai Mehta, among many other prominent leaders.

The highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing performances by acclaimed folk artists Hareshbhai Gadhvi, Devrajbhai Gadhvi, Nankubhai Gadhvi, and Muktidan Gadhvi. Their captivating renditions of Kagbapu's poetry and bhajans left the audience spellbound.

This grand celebration once again proved that Kagbapu's bhajans and words continue to pulse in the hearts of Gujaratis, keeping his timeless legacy alive.