New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s rich legacy of literature, education and traditional art received national recognition on Tuesday as three distinguished personalities from the state were conferred with the Padma Shri during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards to individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact in their respective fields and enriched India’s cultural and intellectual landscape.
Among the awardees from Odisha, Charan Hembram was honoured for his contribution to Literature and Education. His work has been recognised for advancing knowledge and promoting educational and literary values.
In the field of Art, Sarat Patra and Simanchal Patra received the Padma Shri for their outstanding contributions to preserving and promoting traditional artistic traditions.
Simanchal Patra, widely known for his contribution to Odisha’s traditional Sakhi Natak theatre, was recognised for keeping the indigenous performing art form alive and bringing greater visibility to Odisha’s cultural heritage through decades of dedication and artistic excellence.
The recognition of the three awardees has been viewed as a moment of pride for Odisha, highlighting the state’s continued contribution to India’s literary and cultural landscape through individuals rooted in community traditions and creative expression.
This year, the Government of India announced a total of 131 Padma Awards, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards are among the country’s highest civilian honours and recognise distinguished achievements across fields including art, literature, education, sports, medicine, science, social work and public affairs.
