Bhubaneswar: The pride of Odisha shines brighter as four distinguished personalities from the state have been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri Awards for 2024. These individuals, each a maestro in their respective fields, bring glory to Odisha’s rich cultural tapestry on the national stage.
1. Gopinath Swain:
Hailing from Ganjam, Gopinath Swain is a revered Krishna Leela Singer who has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting this culturally rich tradition. His commitment to traditional techniques and innovative methods has revitalized Krishna Leela, creating a seamless bridge between the past and the present.
2. Bhagabat Pradhan:
An Exponent of Sabda Nrutya folk dance from Bargarh, Bhagabat Pradhan has taken this traditional dance form beyond the confines of temples. Devoting over five decades of his life to preserving and popularizing the art considered the dance of Mahadev, Bhagabat Pradhan has trained more than 600 dancers, contributing significantly to the sustainability of Sabda Nrutya.
3. Binod Maharana:
Binod Maharana, a Pattachitra artist from Odisha, has been recognized for his outstanding contribution to this traditional art form. With intricate detailing and vibrant colors, Binod Maharana’s Pattachitra creations are a testament to his artistic prowess.
4. Binod Kumar Pasayat:
Binod Kumar Pasayat, a distinguished litterateur and lyricist from Odisha, has been honored with the Padma Shri Award for his remarkable contributions to literature and music. His lyrical prowess and literary achievements have left an indelible mark, enriching the cultural landscape of Odisha.