Padma Awards 2026: The grand halls of the Rashtrapati Bhavan witnessed a profoundly significant moment on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
During the second Civil Investiture Ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Padma Shri award upon three extraordinary stalwarts from Odisha: Charan Hembram, Sarat Kumar Patra, and Simanchal Patra.
A total of 65 eminent personalities were honored at the event, but the stories of these three sons of Odisha stood out, representing a lifetime of dedication to preserving India’s traditional arts, indigenous languages, and ancient weaving traditions.
Simanchal Patra: The 98-Year-Old ‘Bhishma Pitamaha’ of Prahallad Natak
Padma Awards 2026: One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony involved 98-year-old Simanchal Patra. Known reverently across Odisha as the “Bhishma Pitamaha” of Prahallad Natak a traditional folk theatre form that dramatizes stories from the Puranas and epics such as the Mahabharata his presence at the ceremony drew widespread admiration.
A Memorable Moment on Stage
Having devoted more than nine decades of his life to folk theatre, Simanchal Patra’s appearance at the ceremony symbolized a lifetime of service to India’s cultural heritage. Despite his advanced age, he accepted the honour with remarkable dignity and grace.
A Lifetime of Dedication
For many observers, his recognition highlighted the contributions of countless grassroots artists who dedicate their lives to preserving traditional art forms, often working far from the national spotlight.
Simanchal Patra began learning Sakhi Nata at the age of seven. Over the decades, he mastered complex roles such as Prince Prahallad and the demon king Hiranyakashyap.
Beyond performing, he established numerous Akhadas (training centres), helping preserve the art form by mentoring generations of young performers.
He was previously honoured with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1990, further cementing his place among Odisha’s most respected folk artists.
Charan Hembram: The Guardian of the Santali Language
Padma Awards 2026: Hailing from Nungan village in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, 74-year-old Charan Hembram received the Padma Shri for his immense contributions to Santali literature, education, and the preservation of the indigenous Ol Chiki script.
Transforming Santali Education
As the Secretary of the Board of Santali Education, Odisha (ASECA) from 1992 to 2004, Hembram played an important role in expanding educational opportunities for Santali-speaking communities.
He was instrumental in promoting the teaching of the Ol Chiki script and supporting the growth of Ol Itun Asras (Santali schools) across the state.
A Prolific Cultural Voice
For more than three decades, Hembram has contributed extensively to Santali literature through works such as Sereng Sandhayani and Bhanj Mili.
He also encouraged the preservation of tribal cultural traditions by supporting community-based artistic and performance initiatives.
His lifelong commitment to language, education, and cultural preservation has earned him widespread respect within the Santali community and beyond.
Sarat Kumar Patra: The Master Weaver Who Inscribed Scriptures on Silk
From the historic weaving village of Nuapatana in Odisha’s Cuttack district, Sarat Kumar Patra was honoured for his exceptional mastery of Bandha (Ikat) craftsmanship.
Born into a weaving family, Patra never received formal school education, yet he went on to become one of the country’s most respected textile artisans.
The 52-Meter Masterpiece
Patra is renowned for an extraordinary achievement that took seven years to complete: weaving the sacred verses of Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, onto a single 52-meter-long Bandha saree using natural dyes developed through his own experimentation and craftsmanship.
Global Recognition
He also created the celebrated 8’x8′ “Dash-Avatar” Ikat wall hanging, depicting the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu alongside Sanskrit verses in a complex circular design. This remarkable work is preserved at the renowned Calico Museum in Ahmedabad.
Over the years, Patra has represented India at cultural events in countries including the United Kingdom and Malaysia.
Through his training and mentorship of younger artisans, he has helped ensure that Odisha’s centuries-old Ikat weaving tradition continues to thrive.
A Celebration of Roots
The inclusion of Charan Hembram, Sarat Kumar Patra, and Simanchal Patra in the Padma Awards 2026 list serves as a reminder of the immense value of India’s cultural heritage.
While their achievements span different fields from language preservation and handloom artistry to folk theatre their shared mission has been to safeguard and pass on Odisha’s rich traditions to future generations.
Their recognition highlights the importance of preserving India’s diverse cultural legacy and celebrating those who dedicate their lives to keeping it alive.