Bhubaneswar: Renowned Santhali writer and musician Charan Hembram expressed his happiness on Sunday after receiving the nomination for the prestigious Padma Shri award.
Speaking about the nomination, Hembram said, “My family and I are very pleased to hear this news.”
Highlighting his contribution to the development of tribal communities, Hembram shared that he has established several schools to promote education and culture among indigenous people. He has worked hard to eliminate superstitions prevalent among tribal groups through the spread of education.
The guardian of Santhali language and culture also revealed that he has authored five books on the culture and heritage of tribal communities.
Hembram added, “Nearly 70 organisations from Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal have honoured me. The development of tribal communities and spreading education among them remain my greatest challenges.” He mentioned that under the guidance of his mentor and pioneering Santhali writer and teacher Pandit Raghunath Murmu, he has dedicated his life to the progress of tribal people.
On the eve of the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the Central Government announced the Padma awards for 2026 on Sunday. Among the recipients, four distinguished personalities from Odisha were selected for the Padma Shri, marking a proud moment for the state.
According to the official notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, prominent Santhali writer and musician Charan Hembram, well-known linguist and folklorist Mahendra Kumar Mishra, and acclaimed artists Simanchal Patro and Sharat Kumar Patra will receive the country’s fourth highest civilian award.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi congratulated all the awardees, stating on his social media handle, “It is a matter of great pride and honour for Odisha that Charan Hembram and Mahendra Kumar Mishra have been nominated for the Padma Shri in the fields of literature and education, and Sharat Kumar Patra and Simanchal Patro in the field of art for 2026. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all of you. Your achievement has brought a new identity to Odisha’s art and culture at the national level. I pray to Lord Jagannath for your bright future and continued progress.”