RJ Nikhil Rathore Honored with Inaugural 'Haji Zafar Khan Sindhi Rajasthani Award'

In a significant step towards the recognition of Rajasthani language, Radio Jockey Nikhil Rathore has been honored with the prestigious "Haji Zafar Khan Sindhi Rajasthani Award 2024." The award, instituted in memory of Haji Zafar Khan Sindhi, a stalwart in promoting the Rajasthani language, was presented at the World Mother Language Day celebration. The event was organized jointly by Maharaja Mansingh Pustak Prakash Research Centre, Mehrangarh, and the Rajasthani Department of Jayanarayan Vyas University, along with Baba Ramdev Research Chair.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. CP Deval emphasized the integral role Rajasthani has played in the country's independence and called for its constitutional recognition. He lamented that despite being the language of the people of Rajasthan, politicians are unable to take their oaths in the Assembly in Rajasthani. The independence, he argued, remains incomplete without the official recognition of Rajasthani.

Jagatsingh Rathore, the chairman of the function, highlighted Rajasthani as an independent and rich language with a global identity. He mentioned that countries like America and Nepal have recognized the language, emphasizing the need for constitutional acknowledgment. The inaugural "Haji Zafar Khan Sindhi Rajasthani Award" was conferred upon RJ Nikhil Rathore for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of the Rajasthani language.

RJ Nikhil, known for creating various intellectual properties in Rajasthani, has played a pioneering role in incorporating the local dialect into his radio broadcasts and digital content. Despite the predominant use of Hindi in the radio market of Rajasthan, RJ Nikhil's efforts have gained immense popularity among listeners. The recognition comes with a citation, a cash prize of Rs 11,000, and a turban, symbolizing the honor bestowed upon him for his significant role in elevating the status of the Rajasthani language in the region.

The award ceremony serves as a notable milestone in the journey towards the constitutional recognition of Rajasthani, reflecting the commitment to preserving and promoting the linguistic diversity of the country.

RJ Nikhil Rathore joins the RED FM Jaipur family, the station anticipates an even more engaging and culturally resonant radio experience for its listeners.