Chandigarh: Vishnudutt, grandson of legendary Saang artist Pandit Lakhmi Chand, has been selected for the prestigious Dhanpat Singh Sangi Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 for his contribution to Haryana’s rich folk theatre tradition. He will be honoured with a cash award of Rs 1 lakh and a citation.
Dr. Aditya Dahiya, Director, Information, Public Relations and Languages Department, Haryana, said Saang holds a special place in the state’s cultural heritage. Beyond entertainment, it has served as a powerful medium for conveying social values, moral teachings and the everyday experiences of rural communities through folk theatre.
He said the department organises the State-Level Saang Mahotsav every year to preserve this cultural legacy, promote traditional performing arts and encourage artists who have dedicated themselves to keeping the art form alive.
Vishnudutt was selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award on the basis of the combined assessment of the two committees. Dr. Aditya Dahiya added that sustained efforts to recognise accomplished artists and promote traditional art forms would help preserve Haryana’s rich folk theatre heritage and inspire future generations to carry it forward.
