Poet Dad [Dadudan Gadhvi]

25/11/2025

Gujarati Lok-Kavi | Folk Literature | Dayro Artist | Rural Poetry | Gujarati Sahitya

Poet Dad (Dadudan Gadhvi) was one of the most popular folk poets in Gujarati literature. He was born in a simple family, and from childhood itself, he was deeply attracted towards poetry. He expressed the sweet and bitter experiences of life in a very simple, direct, and rural style through his poems.

In his poetry, we can clearly see Gujarati folk culture, spirituality, love, pain, humanity, and glimpses of rural lifestyle. He used village dialects and folk language in his poetry so that common people could easily connect with his creations. His poems reflect simplicity of words, depth of emotions, and the essence of life. In Gujarati literature, Poet Dad holds a respected place as one of the finest folk poets.

Literary Contribution:

1. Presented emotions of life
2. Simple and rural language
3. Reflection of folk culture

Characteristics:

1. Connected to the hearts of common people
2. Preserved folk traditions

Some famous works of Dad Bapu (only names):

“Kaalja Kero Katko Maro”

A piece of my heart slipped away from the knot, Just like a sprout bursting out of the soil in spring. His feet stiffened on this earth, When he somehow crossed the doorstep like a mountain.

The cradle refused to swing any longer, Death freed him completely, Like an eclipse swallowed the moon beneath the veil. Even the branches of neem and tamarind call him once again, Oh, the earth echoes the sound of his absence.

Step after step the journey turned into countless villages, Descending from the slope, my sun disappeared. My beloved treasure was looted right before me, As if the soul left the body, I am left empty within.