Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised the rich contribution of six Padma Shri awardees from the state in preserving and promoting culture, language, Odia literature and music.
Taking to his Twitter handle (X) the Primer Minister said “During my visit to Odisha yesterday (Saturday) I had the opportunity to meet some of the distinguished Padma awardees from the state who have made rich contributions to our nation at the grassroots level
Modi said “Glad to meet Shri Haldhar Nag who was conferred Padma Shri in 2016. His unwavering perseverance and profound dedication to preserving and promoting Sambalpuri and Odia literature are very inspiring, his passion for literature ignites a sense of pride for our linguistic tradition.
The Prime Minister, who met Jitendra Haripal, who was conferred the Padma Shri in 2017 for his exemplary contribution to music, said his rendition of Rangabati is widely admired. “Glad to have met him in Odisha”.
“Shri Binod Kumar Pasayat ji of Sambalpuyr is a distinguished lyricist, playwright and poet .His contribution to Sambalpuri language is invaluable. He stands as an eminent litterateur of Odisha having written seven decades. He has been conferred the Padma Shri this year,” Modi said.
He further tweeted “Happy to have met Shree Bhagbat Pradhan ji in Odisha. His dedication to preserving and popularising Sabda Nrutya over five decades is truly inspiring. People like him made us culturally richer and also ensured that the youth remained connected with their roots.Congratulated him on being conferred Padma Shri this year.”
The Prime Minister said “Privileged to meet Dr. Krishna Patel ji, a celebrated Sambalpuri folk singer whose mesmerising voice has resonated for over four decades.
“Her contribution to our cultural heritage is immense. The government of India had conferred the Padma Shri on her in 2023,” he said.
“Meeting Shree Mitrabhanu Gountia ji was an enriching experiences,” Modi said taking on X, adding: “His versatility as a dramatist, poet, lyricist and novelist has left an indelible mark, enriching our cultural tapestry. He was honored with Padma Shri in 2020”. UNI
