Jordan Lepcha: Maestro in Bamboo Hats and Crafts set to receive Padma Shri Award

Sikkim: The rhythmic sounds of bamboo weaving in Mangan, Sikkim, echo the timeless commitment of Jordan Lepcha, a 50-year-old bamboo craftsperson, in preserving the traditional Lepcha hats. On the eve of Republic Day, the nation acknowledges his dedication as he is set to receive the prestigious Padma Shri award for 2024.

Hailing from Mangan, Jordan Lepcha has been a stalwart in nurturing the cultural heritage of the Lepcha tribe. For the past 25 years, he has been the custodian of the ancient craft of weaving traditional Lepcha hats and bamboo crafts, which holds immense significance in the heritage of Sikkim.

As a skilled artisan and dedicated trainer, Jordan Lepcha has played a pivotal role in passing on his knowledge to over 150 youths from different parts of Sikkim. Many of these individuals have not only embraced the art but have also established their own Bamboo Crafts, sustaining themselves and contributing to the preservation of this age-old tradition.

Apart from his mastery in bamboo crafts, Jordan Lepcha is also a marginal farmer and carpenter, embodying the holistic connection between nature, culture, and craftsmanship. His multifaceted contributions have made a lasting impact on the Lepcha community, fostering a sense of pride and continuity in their cultural practices.