Bhubaneswar: Four unsung heroes from Odisha have been selected for the prestigious Padma Shri awards in 2026, as announced by the Government of India on the eve of the 77th Republic Day. Recognized under the unsung heroes category, the awardees are being honored for their decades of selfless service and exceptional contributions to art, literature, and education.
Sarat Kumar Patra is a distinguished master weaver from the Nuapatna handloom cluster in Odisha who has dedicated his life to preserving the ancient Ikat and natural tie-dye traditions. Recognized with the Padma Shri in 2026, he is celebrated for his technical mastery in creating intricate patterns without the use of synthetic chemicals, relying instead on plant-based dyes.
His work is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the region, as he specializes in weaving the sacred Gita Govinda silk used in the rituals of the Shree Jagannatha Temple in Puri. Over several decades, he has transitioned from a traditional artisan to a national icon, previously receiving the Sant Kabir Award for his efforts in keeping the handloom sector vibrant and sustainable. By training younger generations and showcasing his work on global platforms, he has ensured that the delicate art of Odishan weaving remains a living part of India’s artistic landscape.
Simanchal Patro, a veteran Sakhi Nata and Prahlad Natak folk artist, is among the recipients. Known for his mastery over traditional theatre, Patro has dedicated his life to preserving folk forms that require immense vocal and physical stamina. Reports highlight that he even sold a portion of his personal property to fund and sustain the development of Prahlad Natak, ensuring the ancient art form survives for future generations.
In the field of literature and education, Mahendra Kumar Mishra has been recognized for his extensive work in documenting tribal folklore. As an eminent linguist and folklorist, Shri Mishra has spent years recording the myths, songs, and proverbs of Odisha’s indigenous communities. His research was instrumental in the state’s adoption of multi-lingual education, and he previously received the UNESCO International Mother Language Award for his commitment to preserving tribal heritage.
The third recipient is Charan Hembram, a dedicated Santhali author and composer. Often described as a sentinel of the Santhali language, Hembram has worked for over thirty years to bring visibility to tribal art and literature. He founded several institutions to provide cultural education to tribal youth and has been a key figure in propagating indigenous dance traditions among women to protect their cultural identity.
These awards celebrate the spirit of grassroots leadership and the preservation of Odisha’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity. The honors will be formally presented by the President of India at a special ceremony to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this year.