Presents

Sandeep Murarka
Editor
TRIBAL
LUMINARIES
of INDIA

Sandeep Murarka
Editor
Published to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Independence Day
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' 2022

Coffee Table Book

105 Tribal Luminaries of India

Editor of Hindi Edition

Sandeep Murarka

Concept & Feature Writing

Sandeep Murarka

English Translation by
Anand Mohan Chaubey
Jamshedpur, Jharkhand
+91 93348 10813

Publisher
Vidhyadeep Foundation
CIN - U80902WB2022NPL253345
Office - 201, Silver Siddha Pines, AS/185 Gopalpur,
Rajarhat Main Road, Kolkata, Parganas North, West Bengal, India, 700136
Phone : +91 98741 46128
Email : foundationvidhyadeep@gmail.com
An Initiative under CSR activity 2022-23 (Under Schedule VII of Companies
Printed by Act 2013 - Item No. ii & v )

Kailash Paper Conversion Private Limited, Ranchi, Jharkhand
Copyright@ Sandeep Murarka
1st Edition of English Translation-11th May, 2023
Publication of books based on Tribal community (ST), promotion of
traditional tribal art and culture, promotion of vocational and cultural skills
of tribes of India, promotion of special education, distribution of above
books in Libraries of educational institutions and public.

Price : `1800/-Each
 CONTENT

Odisha 25 71 103
Gujarat Arunachal Pradesh

Jharkhand
33 77 107
Kerala Sikkim

Bihar 47 79 111
Meghalaya Andaman & Nicobar

49 83 113
West Bengal Tripura Mizoram

53 85 115
Chhattisgarh Manipur Telangana

57 89 119
Madhya Pradesh Nagaland Jammu & Kashmir

63 95
Rajasthan Karnataka

67 99
Maharashtra Assam
 Postal Stamp issued on Tribe
10th Dec, 1987 15th Nov, 1988

Veer Narayan Singh Birsa Munda

Tribe - Binjhwar Denomination - 60 Paise
State - Chhattisgarh Tribe - Munda
State - Jharkhand

Rs. 25 Paise Rs. 60 Paise

26th Dec, 1986 24th Nov, 1988 28th Nov, 2000

Alluri Seetarama Raju Rani Durgawati 50 Years of Republic of India

Sanyasi, Tribal Freedom Fighter Tribe - Gond Paramveer Albert Ekka
State - Telangana State - Madhyapradesh Gallantry Award Winers
Tribe - Oraon
State - Jharkhand

Rs. 50 Paise Rs. 60 Paise Rs. 3 Rupees

30th Dec, 1986 12th Sept., 1996

Veer Surendra Sai Rani Gaidinliu

Tribe - Gond Tribe - Naga
State - Odisha State - Manipur

Rs. 50 Paise Rs. 1 Rupees

lh- ih- jk/kÑ".ku
RAJ BHAVAN
Ranchi-834001
Jharkhand

C. P. Radhakrishnan ‚àÿ◊fl ¡ÿÃ

GOVERNOR OF JHARKHAND

Message

I t is a matter of Great pleasure that on the occasion off Tribal Pride Day (15th November,
2022). a Coffee table book ns'k ds 105 fof'k"V tutkrh; O;fDrRo** was published by
Vidyapeeth Foundation, Kolkata. I am very happy to know that an English version of this
Coffee table book "105 Tribal Luminaries of India" is being published.
I hope this Coffee table Book containing significant contribution of great tribal personalities
will prove to be useful and meaningful towards motivating people and inspire them to work in the
interest of the society and the nation at large.
My best wishes for successful publication of the Coffee table book.

(C.P. Radhakrishnan)
 Postal Stamp issued on Tribe
6th Dec, 2001 12th March, 2009 28th Jan, 2018

U Kiang Nangbah Baburao Puleshwar Shedmake Dr. Talimeren Ao

Tribe - Khasi Tribe - Gond Tribe - Ao
State - Meghalaya State - Maharashtra State - Nagaland

Rs. 4 Rupees Rs. 5 Rupees Rs. 5 Rupees

6th April, 2002 31st Jan, 2009 12th Dec, 2022

Sido - Kanhu Murmu Bishnu Prasad Rabha Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma

Tribe - Santhal Tribe - Bodo Tribe - Garo
State - Jharkhand State - Assam State - Meghalaya

Rs. 4 Rupees Rs. 5 Rupees Rs. 5 Rupees

25h Nov, 2004 22nd Sep, 2017

Dula Bhaya Kag Ramayana - Shabri

Tribe - Charan (Gadhwi) Tribe - Bhil
State - Gujrat State - Chhattisgarh

Rs. 5 Rupees Rs. 5 Rupees

eaxwHkkbZ iVsy
jkt Hkou
Hkksiky & 462052
RAJ BHAVAN
BHOPAL - 462052
MANGUBHAI PATEL ‚àÿ◊fl ¡ÿÃ

jkT;iky] eè;izns'k
GOVERNMENT OF MADHYA PRADESH
Message

g "kZ dk fo"k; gS fd vkt+knh ds ve`r egksRlo ds volj ij fo|knhi iQkmaMs'ku dksydkrk

}kjk ns'k ds 105 fof'k"V tutkrh; O;fDrRo 'kh"kZd ls dkiWQh Vscy cqd dk izdk'ku fd;k tk jgk gSA
jk"Vªh;rk dh Hkko&Hkkoukvksa ls Hkjh Hkkoh ih<+h ds fuekZ.k ds fy, jk"Vª] lekt dh xkSjo xkFkkvksa vkSj egku
gfLr;ksa ds O;fDrRo vkSj ÑfrRo ls tqM+s izsj.kknk;h dk;Z fd, tkuk] lekt dk nkf;Ro gSA bl fn'kk esa ns'k
ds tutkrh; lekt dh fof'k"V izfrHkkvksa dh ifjp;kRed tkudkfj;ksa ds izlkj ds fy, lfp=k iqLrd dk
ladyu fd;k tkuk lkFkZd igy gSA
vk'kk gS] tutkrh; lekt ds xkSjo izrhdksa dk dkiWQh Vscy cqd ds #i esa ladyu ;qokvksa vkSj Hkkoh ih<+h
dks Hkfo"; iFk dh fn'kk r; djus esa lg;ksxh vkSj izsj.kknk;h gksxkA
'kqHkdkeuk,a]

(eaxqHkkbZ iVsy)

nwjHkk"k% 0755&2858828] 2858830] iQSDl% 0755&2858832] bZ&esy% mprajbhavan@mp.gov.in

 Postal Stamp issued on Tribe
30th May, 1981 Kayang Tribal Dance Hozagiri Tribal Dance

Khiamngan Naga
Toda
Bhil
Dandami Maria

Rs. 1 Rupee Rs. 4 Rupees Rs. 5 Rupees

30th April., 1991 9th Oct, 1999

Valar Tribal Dance Velakali Tribal Dance Indian Rural Art and Craft
Traditions
Mask for Chhau Dance ok
Rathva wall painting
Muria Ritual Object
Angami Ornament

Rs. 2.5 Rupees Rs. 6.5 Rupees Rs. 3/15 Rupees

10th Feb., 2017

Bison Horn Maria Tribe Tur-

ban
Angami Tribe Cap
Naga Hat
Brokpa Turban

Rs. 10 Rupees
vtqZu eqaMk
ea=kh
tutkrh; dk;Z ea=kky;
Hkkjr ljdkj
'kkL=kh Hkou] ubZ fnYyh&110001
ARJUN MUNDA ‚àÿ◊fl ¡ÿÃ
MINISTER OF TRIBAL AFFAIRS
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
SHASTRI BHAWAN, NEW DELHI-110001
Message

eq >s ;g tkudj vR;ar izlUurk gS fd fo|knhi iQkmaMs'ku }kjk ^^ns'k ds 105 fof'k"V tutkrh;
O;fDrRo** 'kh"kZd ij ^^dkWiQh Vscy cqd** dk izdk'ku f}Hkk"kh :i esa fd;k tk jgk gSA bl
iqLrd esa ns'k ds iÁ iqjLdkj ls lEekfur egku tutkrh; O;fDrRo rFkk fof'k"V vkfnoklh gfLr;ksa
dk ifjp; dks lekfgr dj ubZ ih<+h ds fy, vkn'kZ ds :i esa izLrqr fd;k tk jgk gSA eSa bl vuwBs
iz;kl dh ljkguk djrk gwaA
eq>s iwjk fo'okl gS fd ;g izdk'ku tutkrh; leqnk; dh miyfC/;ksa ls ns'k esa tkx:drk dh fn'kk
esa ,d ehy dk iRFkj lkfcr gksxkA
esjh gkfnZd 'kqHkdkeuk,aA

(vtqZu eqaMk)

751, A Wing, Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi-110001. Tel. : 011-23381499, 23388482, 23070577 (Fax)
E-mail : arjun.munda@gov.in
PM on Twitter
iQXxu flag dqyLrs bLikr ,oa
Faggan Singh Kulaste xzkeh.k fodkl jkT; ea=h
Hkkjr ljdkj
m|ksx Hkou] ubZ fnYyh&110011
MINISTER OF STATE OF STEEL
AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
UDYOG BHAWAN, NEW DELHI-110011
Message

I am very happy to know that Vidyadeep Foundation is goin to publish "105 Special Tribal
Personalities of the Country" "Coffee Table Book" in which the great tribal personalities
who have received Padma Awards and decorated high position in the country are going to be
published with photographs and introduction, which will be ideal for the new generation.
I convey hearty congratulations and boundless best wishes to all the members of the
editorial board of Vidyadeep Foundation.

(Faggan Singh Kulaste)

Room No. 146, Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi-110011 Phone No. 011-2363810, 23061370, Fax : 23062703
Delhi Residence : 8, Safdarjung Lane, New Delhi- 110011, Phone : 011-23792158
PM on Twitter
gseUr lksjsu
Hemant Soren
eq[;ea=kh] >kj[kaM
CHIEF MINISTER OF JHARKHAND
Message

fo |knhi iQkmaMs'ku dks ns'k dh fof'k"V tutkrh; O;fDrRo dks lEeku nsus ds fy, <+sj lkjh
'kqHkdkeuk,aA
fofnr gS fd tutkrh; lekt ds dbZ O;fDrRo iÁ iqjLdkj ls iqjLÑr gS] ns'k ds dbZZ mPp laLFkkuksa]
ljdkjh lsokvksa esa viuk cgqewY; ;ksxnku nsdj ns'k dh lsok dj ,d dhfrZeku LFkkfir fd;k gSA
,sls lEekfur O;fDr;ksa dks 'kCnksa ls vyaÑr djuk ,d cM+h pqukSrh gSA ;s gekjs fy, g"kZ dk fo"k;
gS fd fo|knhi iQkmaMs'ku dh vksj ls ns'k ds 105 fof'k"V tutkrh; O;fDrRo dks lEekfur djus
ds fy, ,d dkWiQh Vscy cqd dk çdk'ku fd;k tk jgk gSA
cqd ds çdk'ku ls ubZ ;qok ih<+h dks ekxZn'kZu çkIr gks ldsxk ,oa lekt ds uol`tu esa ,d ubZ fn'kk
fey ldsxh] bUgha 'kqHkdkeukvksa ds lkFk ,d ckj iqu% fo|knhi iQkmaMs'ku dks <sj lkjh eaxydkeuk,aA
tksgkj!

(gseUr lksjsu)

dkads jksM] jkaph & 834 008 (>kj[kaM)

nwjHkk"k% 0651&2280886] 2280996] 2400233 iQSDl% 2280717] 2400232]
bZ&esy% chiefminister.jharkhand19@gmail.com
PM on Twitter
 lehj mjkao
lnL; %
dks;yk ,oa bLikr laca/h LFkk;h lalnh; lfefr
ijke'kZnk=kh lfefr % i;kZoj.k] ou vkSj tyok;q
laln lnL; (jkT; lHkk) ‚àÿ◊fl ¡ÿÃ
ifjorZu] foKku vkSj izkS|ksfxdh
,oa i`Foh foKku ea=kky;
Samir Uraon
MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
(RAJYA SABHA)
Message

^^Hk kjr ds 105 fof'k"V tutkrh; O;fDrRo** 'kh"kZd ij fo|knhi iQkmaMs'ku }kjk dkWiQ+h Vscy
cqd dk çdk'ku ,d ljkguh; dne gSA Hkkjr ds tutkrh; lekt ds yCèk çfr"B egkiq#"kksa
ds cgqeq[kh çfrHkk lEiUu thou] la?k"kZ] R;kx & riL;k vkSj mudh fof'k"Vrkvksa dks lfp=k lesVs ;g
iqLrd ^^xkxj esa lkxj** gSA ;'kLoh çèkkuea=kh Jh ujsaæ eksnh th }kjk tutkrh; lekt dks çnÙk lEeku
^^tutkrh; xkSjo fnol** ds lqvolj ij bl vuqie Ñfr dk yksdkiZ.k vR;ar çlUurk dk fo"k; gSA ;g
iqLrd ml le; çLrqr dh tk jgh gS tc bldh egrh vko';drk eglwl dh tk jgh gSA
esjh vk'kk gS fd ;g çdk'ku tutkrh; lekt dh miyfCèk;ksa vkSj Hkwfedk ds lUnHkZ esa tkx:drk gsrq
,d çsj.kknk;h ekud ds rkSj ij çfrf"Br gksxkA
bl çdk'ku gsrq esjh gkfnZd 'kqHkdkeuk;saA

(lehj mjkao)

fnYyh % B-303, ,e-,l- ÝySV] ckck [kMdflag ekxZ] ubZ fnYyh&110001] nwjHkk"k % 011&23736944] 23736929
fc'kquiqj % xzke&fc'kquiqj djeVksyh] iks-@Fkkuk&fc'kquiqj] ftyk& xqeyk] >kj[kaM&835231
eksckby % $91&8809799411] $91&9868181190] bZ&esy % samir.oraon@sansad.nic.in
PM on Twitter
 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

RAMKRISHNA FORGINGS LIMITED

Saraikela – Kharsawan, Jharkhand

Precision Rules Production

RAMKRISHNA FORGINS LIMITED

ujs'k tkyku
Naresh Jalan
Message

I am very happy to note that Vidyadeep Foundation, Kolkata is bringing out a Coffee Table Book '105
Tribal Luminaries of India'. This Coffee Table Book Incorporates Photographic likenesses and thumb-
nail life sketches of 105 Tribal luminaries across the length and breadth of our nation who have achieved
stupendous success in various fields of endeavours against overwhelming odds. This is bound to inspire us
for generations.
I congratulate Mr. Sandeep Murarka on this singular achievement and wish him all success and accolades. I
also hope that this Coffee Table Book Shall adorn all universities, Colleges and libraries. Ramkrishna Forgings
Ltd. wish him Godspeed and my personal greetings.

Naresh Jalan
Managing Director

PLANT : V : Baliguma, P.O : Kolabira, Thana : Saraikela, Dist. : Saraikela Kharsawan, Jharkhand - 833220,
PH. No. : 0657-2326900, 3984900, E - MAIL : pressplant5@ramkrishnaforgings.com
 Translator's ink
Message

Anand Mohan Chaubey

A s the title explicitly suggests, this compilation includes achievers amongst our tribal communities who
attained their lofty goals in the face of seemingly tremendous odds. Further, on umpteen occasions
various commentators have depicted tribal lives and personalities in a not-so-subtle negative light
with myriad retelling of their backwardness, superstitions, illiteracy, alcoholism, polygamy. These prejudices
continue to vitiate the thoughts of the so-called mainstream.
This compilation is a dedicated attempt to dispel these prevalent prejudiced and negative ideas about our tribals
by highlighting the lives of these tribal luminaries. In our humble opinion, our tribals are not only as good but
are definitely better than anyone in all fields of endeavour. Their love for nature, their colourful folk dances,
their simplistic lives, their freedom from exhibitionism - all adorable traits offer hope for future especially in
view of the looming deforestation, climate change and even the matter of safeguarding our bio-diversity.
We hope that the efforts of our tribals shall be buttressed by similar noble lives by most of our citizenry.

I fervently hope that this coffee table anthology compiled by Sandeep Murarka will present to the world a truer
and unprejudiced reality of not only our tribals but of our entire nation which have been perceived as being
bereft of progressive ideas.
 From the Editor's Desk...
75
th
anniversary of our independence has been most appropriately hailed
as ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ by our most popular Prime Minister
Shri Narendra Modi Ji. Every compatriot ardently wishes to be an
uncompromisingly dedicated part of these celebrations. I humbly feel uniquely
blessed in these celebrations by compiling this compendium which includes
105 resplendent personalities from our brethren having allegiance to 52 tribes
in 23 states of the Union extending from Jammu & Kashmir to Kerala who have
been able to achieve resounding success in the face of daunting odds. While
many of these shinning tribal achievers may have been deprived of any formal
schooling, many of these have been topics for Doctoral theses and dissertations.

I hasten to add a few examples of these luminaries. Paintings by Padma Shri

Bhajju Shyam of Madhya Pradesh having been amongst best sellers in European
capitals.

Padma Shri Gulabo Sapera has performed her Kalbelia dance in 165 nations.
Known in Jharkhand by the moniker ‘Water Man’, Simone Oraon has single
handedly erected a dam. Daitari Naik has dug a fully functional canal in Odisha.
Granny of Kerala forests, Lakshmi Kutti has healed a large number of foreigners
with her herbal concoctions.

Padma Shri Trinity Saioo has established herself as a pioneering exporter of

Lakadong variety of turmeric. Tulsi Gouda, a walking encyclopaedia of fauna in
Karnataka has planted more than a hundred thousand trees. Maharastra's Rahi
Bai Soma Sopare has established a popular seed bank. Bhagat Bapu has been
hailed as a modern day Valmiki in Gujarat. Thanga Darlong, a venerable 102
years old from Tripura has been uniquely credited having revived the classical
tribal music. Padma Vibhushan M.C. Mary Kom from Manipur has been six
times World Boxing Champion. A 100 rupee commemorative coin has been
released by Shri Narendra Modi in the honour of Rani Gaindiliu of Nagaland.
Birubala Rabha of Assam has been tirelessly involved in the eradication of
the abominable ‘Dayan’ scourge. Anshu Jamsenpa of Arunachal Pradesh has
scaled the lofty Everest peak twice in 6 days. Bhaichung
Bhutia Stadium in Sikkim is an eloquent testimony of the
eponymous footballing legend. Ajmera Bobby of Telangana
is an experienced commercial pilot. Kashmiri shepherd
Mohammad Deen Jagir foiled the nefarious designs of
Pakistani intruders.
Characteristically devoid of even minor traces of self
aggrandisement, our tribal achievers richly deserve a
compendium of their effulgence as it may help others to
emulate them and also to get inspired. Fleeting references
may be found in news/reportage of tribal tracts. These need
highlighting. Negligible work has been done in this regard and
therefore a huge amount of work still awaits to be undertaken.
A survey has established that in about 195 nations on our
planet, 7117 languages exist vocally. Our own India has 122
major languages and 1599 dialects. We also have 3000 tribes
and 25000 sub tribes. Every grouping has its own social code,
religious modes, deities, folk more and holy book. These have
been rarely published in languages other than Hindi, English,
Bangla or Odiya. Only Srimad Bhagavat Gita has been
published in 75 languages. I sincerely plead that this task is
taken up by philologists/translators without further dallying.
It is worth noting that Holy Bible has been translated in more
than 700 languages including all major languages of our world.
Some extracts of the Holy Bible have be translated in more
than 3000 dialects including 70 of our own Northeast region.
Initially in 1891, it was translated in the Khasi language of
Meghalaya. It is available in 7 languages in Arunachal Pradesh
including ‘Niashi’ published in 2016. These translations exist
in 13 languages in Nagaland, 6 in Tripura, 11 in Mizoram,
23 in Manipur and 11 in Assam. All this has resulted in the
spread of the gospel in these areas. It also calls for compiling
our tribal history in book form so that our real and ancient
cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated.
I feel immensely gratified and with humility submit this
coffee table volume English edition in your hands. I would
like to thank Shri Anand Mohan Chaubey Ji - a well known
financial consultant of Jamshedpur for his guardian-like
guidance. He not only transliterated this Coffee Table
Collection compiled in Hindi into free flowing English but,
more so, did it with praiseworthy alacrity and within a tight
time schedule. Continuing with this chain of my grateful
acknowledgements, I hereby place on record my heartiest
thanks for the unprecedented cooperation and help from my
Publishers - Vidyadeep Foundation and Printers - Kailash
Paper Conversion Private Limited. The task would have been
beyond me without the help, guidance and cooperation of
these worthies.
My efforts shall be worth the while in case this is considered
but a small brick in the edifice encompassing ‘Azadi Ka Amrit
Mahotsav', 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' and Dharti Aaba Bhagwan
Birsa Munda Jayanti.
www.sandeepmurarka.com
Odisha
26 |
H.E. Shrimati Droupadi Murmu
President of India
Ex-Governor Jharkhand
Ex Minister Odisha
Santhal Tribe
B orn amidst the dense forests of Badampahar
in Odisha, this smiling lady encompasses
an enigmatic reservoir of constant struggle
and relentless positivity in the face of untold
personal tragedies. A childhood spent in grinding
poverty, marriage and subsequent tragic demise
of spouse as well as both sons could have broken
anyone. Braving all this she moved ahead in life.
Progression of her public life starting as a humble
school-teacher to that of the highest public office
of the nation is uniquely singular which shall
definitely be a sterling inspiration to generations
to come. Still, she retains her awesome simplicity.
| 27
 Shri Girish Chandra Murmu
I.A.S.

14th Auditor & Comptroller General of India

1st Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir
Ex Secretary Ministry of Finance Union Government
Ex Principal Secretary, Chief Minister Secretariat , Gujarat
Ex Managing Director, Gujarat Industrial Investment
Corporation Ltd.
Santhal Tribe

A polyglot well versed in Hindi,

English, Oriya, Bangla and Santhali,
this multi-talented bureaucrat belonging
to the 1985 batch assigned to Gujarat
has been a celebrated administrator. He
was entrusted with the highly crucial
responsibilities as the 1st Lt. Governor
of the newly carved union territory of
Jammu and Kashmir in the year 2019
which showed the tremendous confidence
reposed by our Prime Minister in this
remarkable administrator.

28 |
 Padma Shri Purnamasi Jani
Tribal Saint and Poet-Lyricist
Padma Shri in 2019
Khond Tribe
F amous amongst tribals as Tadisaru Bai,
Purnamasi Ji is a totally illiterate musical genius.
In her mother tongue ‘Kui’, Tadisaru translates to
‘Lofty Mountain’ and Bai means ‘Saint’. This makes
her the Saint of the Lofty Mountain. Despite
her illiteracy, she has composed more than 5000
devotional songs, hymns and prayers in Kui, Oriya
and Sanskrit. She also played a stellar role during
heinous communal clashes in 2008 in Kandhmal
district of Odisha. She has been instrumental in
fostering amity and cooperation amongst various
tribes in Odisha.
Padma Shri Dr. Damayanti Beshra
Santhali Litterateur and Poetess
Padma Shri 2020 for sterling contributions in the field of Liter-
ature & Education Santhal tribe
R ecognition for the first poetess for compilation of
Santhali poems has been the unique achievement of
Dr. Damayanti Besra. Nature and human inter-face has
been intricately woven in her creations. She has authored
an authentic biography of the doyen of Santhali literature
Pt. Raghunath Murmu. Her creations include poems,
essays, grammar, biographies, critique, historiography and
has translated numerous pieces of Hindi into Oriya &
Santhali. She has been a columnist of rare distinction, a
powerful orator, teacher and commentator. Amongst tribal
communities, she is recognised for her firm but utterly
humble persona. A few lines penned created by her are
transliterated as under :
You are a woman, not a servitor
You are fire, not inert ash
You are a lass, not a bale of hay
You are rice-paddy, not stale grass
| 29
 Padma Shri Daitari Naik
A folk hero who dug a canal through mountains -“Canal Man”
Padam Shri 2019 for Social Service
Bhuyan Tribe
A rmed with a humble shovel and hand-held
drill, Daitari Ji single handedly dug a 3-
kilometre canal through Gonasika hills in Keonjhar
district, Odisha. This ‘Daitari Canal’ now irrigates
100 acres of agricultural land near Baitarni village.
This is an abject lesson to those citizens who
look towards governmental intervention even for
redressing their petty quotidian problems. Daitari
Nayak, endowed with an infinite reservoir of
self-esteem, is an inspirational figure worthy
of emulation by all.
30 |
Padma Shri Smt. Kamala Pujari
A collector & preserver of rare & almost extinct seeds/flora
Padma Shri 2019 in Agriculture
Bhottada Tribe
R esearch and Development cannot be the
exclusive preserve of industrial enterprises.
Our humble farmers take credit for innovations
which have proved path breaking. Kamala Pujari
Ji has collected & preserved rare seeds of about
100 varieties of rice, til, black cumin, mahakanta,
Phoola, Ghentia which had been given up as extinct.
This has resulted in a seed bank established by her.
Dedicated to organic farming, she has enabled
many farmers in totally avoiding use of chemical
fertilisers.
 Padma Shri Ignace Tirkey
International Hockey Olympian
Padma Shri 2019
Oraon (Kudukh) Tribe
P adma Shri Ignace Tirkey has been a mercurial
fullback and midfield hockey wizard. He
played at Junior National Games and subsequently
in Senior National Games held in Jammu and
Kashmir. In the Premier Hockey league he
skippered Chennai Veerans and lifted the winners
trophy. He represented India in Athens (2004) and
London (2012) Olympic Games. He played 295
international games for our country including the
World Cup and the Asian Games. He has been
a live wire bundle of quicksilver stick work and
dribbling magic.
Padma Shri Dilip Tirkey
Former Captain of the National Hockey Team
Padma Shri 2004
Oraon (Kudukh) Tribe
S eeing Dilip Tirkey wield the hockey stick has been
a magical sight. He is the second most capped
international hockey player with 412 matches in his
kitty, scoring more than 100 goals. A formidable
record indeed. He is the only tribal player who has
participated in three Olympic Games - Atlanta
(USA), 1996, Sydney (Australia), 2000 and Athens
(Greece), 2004. In the Athens Olympics, 2004, he
captained the Indian team.
A Ph.D. (Honoris Causa), Dilip Tirkey has been a
Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha). Presently, he
is the Chairman of Odisha Tourism Development
Corporation and also presides over the Odisha
Hockey Promotion Council.
| 31
 Padma Shri Smt. Tulasi Munda Late Michael Kindo Smt. Sunita Lakara
Founder of schools and spreading A superb international hockey player International Hockey Player
education in mining areas of Odisha 1st Tribal Arjuna Awardee Oraon Tribe
Padma Shri 2001 Social Service Oraon Tribe
Munda Tribe

R espectfully addressed as Tulsi Aapa,

Smt. Tulsi Munda has been tirelessly
imparting social service including
L ate Michael Kindo was an
illustrious member of the Indian
Hockey team which won bronze
S unita Lakra has been an integral
part of Indian Women’s Hockey
team in an staggering 156 international
schooling with a disarmingly altruistic medal in the 1972 Munich Olympics. matches. She made sterling
attitude. She has stood up for temperance As a classic full-back, he represented contributions to the team effort with
as alcoholism has been devastating large our country in many Hockey World India winning Gold Medal in the
swathe of tribal populace. Founding 17 Cup and Asian Games. He was the Asian Champions Trophy (2016) and
schools in tribal mining areas of Odisha
chief coach of the Steel Authority of Asia Cup (2017). She was captain of
has been her signal achievement leading
India Ltd. (SAIL) Hockey Academy. A the team which won Silver Medal in
to imparting basic education to more than
25000 tribal children. This has been done master of the body-feint and dodge, the Asian Champions Trophy (2018)
in an iron ore rich land, an area where his game has earned unhesitating held in Donghae, Republic of Korea.
her parents were engaged in picking rich accolades from aficionados and
lode lumps of the ore. In her opinion, laymen alike.
tribals are handicapped on account
of their poverty, beset with endemic
unemployment, addicted to intoxicants
and steeped in superstitions. She firmly
holds that these debilitating afflictions
are mainly due to illiteracy.

32 |
Jharkhand
34 |
Dishom Guru Shri Shibu Soren
Popularly acclaimed leader of tribals in Jharkhand
Ex Chief Minister Jharkhand
Ex Minister of Coal & Mines Union Government
Santhal Tribe
S hibu Soren Ji has been a unique interlocutor
for the oppressed tribals in Eastern India.
At a comparatively young age of 36 years, he
became a Member of Parliament. He has the
unique distinction of getting elected to the Lok
Sabha, the Lower House of the Indian Parliament
8 times from Dumka constituency. Thrice sworn
in as Chief Minister of Jharkhand, he has been
a Member of the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House
as well as a Union Minister. A die-hard fighter
against the usurious Mahajani system, the twin
curses of alcoholism and illiteracy amongst tribals,
Shibu Soren Ji has been the voice of the humblest
tribal providing inspirational leadership for the
Jharkhand movement. Verily, he is the progenitor
of the political movement amongst the tribals.
| 35
36 |
Shri Arjun Munda
Minister of Tribal Affairs Union of India
Former Chief Minister Jharkhand
Munda Tribe
A rjun Munda Ji has set up an enviable record
by getting elected as a Member of the
Jharkhand Legislative Assembly at an astonishingly
young age of 27. He went on to be sworn-in as
Chief Minister of Jharkhand at 35. While holding
the highest executive office 3 times, he is, at
present, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs. All this
has been accomplished while he has undergone
untold hardships in his formative years. This gave
him a people-oriented perspective making him
a distinguished leader of masses. He believes in
the innate sense of entrepreneurship in tribals.
Guided by this vision, he tirelessly works
towards the goal of making the tribals attain
global prominence and all round success.
| 37
 Lance Naik Late Albert Ekka
Param Veer Chakra (Posthumous)
Oraon (Kudukh) Tribe
L ate Albert Ekka was enlisted in the Indian
Army in the year 1962 and was assigned to the
14th Battalion of the Brigade of Guards. He saw
action in many engagements with insurgents in our
Northeast. In December, 1971 he was engaged
in fierce action against the Pakistani marauding
forces in Bramhanbaria, in the then East Pakistan.
Exhibiting indomitable fighting spirit Ln. Nk.
Albert Ekka gave the supreme sacrifice in the service
of the motherland after emerging victorious. His
valour led to the birth of a new nation -Bangladesh.
Bright burns the torch of valour
Clad in superb exemplary deeds
The humble abode of the martyr
Merely needs a well-lit earthen lamp
38 |
Padma Bhushan Kariya Munda
A symbol of Simplicity Former Dy. Speaker of Lok Sabha
Padma Bhushan for Public Affairs
Munda Tribe
I n 1977, Karia Munda successfully fought and
won Lok Sabha election and became a Minister
in the Union Government on debut in the house.
He has been an 8 time Member of Parliament in
the Lok Sabha, the lower house apart from being
elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly.
He adorned the chair of the Dy. Speaker of Lok
Sabha in the term 2009-14. A charismatic leader
of uncommon simplicity, he has been taking keen
interest in agriculture and horticulture amongst the
tribals.
Padma Shri Late Prof. Digamber Hansda
Santhali Litterateur & Educationist
Padma Shri 2018 for contributions to Literature & Education
Santhal Tribe
L ate Digamber Hansda has rendered yeoman
services in the field of renaissance of tribal
languages. As a highly reputed Member of the
National Tribal Research Institute and Sahitya
Academy, he had the unique distinction for
inclusion of Santhali textbooks in school and
college curricula. He compiled Santhali texts for
Intermediate, Undergraduate and Post Graduate
studies. Credit goes to him for translating many
Devnagari Script textbooks into Santhali. He also
translated Indian Constitution into ‘Olechiki’ script
apart from authoring a large number of books in
tribal languages.
Padma Shri Jamuna Tudu
Preserver of ecosystems; planted more than 300,000 perennial trees
Padma Shri 2019 in the field of Environmental sustainability
Santhal Tribe
R enowned as ‘Lady Tarzan’, Jamuna Ji, armed
with traditional tribal weapon ‘Tangi’, was
given to chasing out jungle mafia engaged in untold
depredations to the forests which have been the
natural habitat of the tribals. Umpteen jungle mafia
were apprehended and were promptly incarcerated.
She organised tribal women self help groups
which have been engaged in making biodegradable
& disposable plates and bowls of leaves. With a
view to encouraging afforestation, she started a
praiseworthy tradition of planting 18 Sal trees
whenever a girl child is born. Similarly, every
bride is given 10 Sal tress as her matrimonial.
| 39
 Padma Shri Simon Oraon
Environmentalist Par Excellence
Padma Shri 2016 for excellent services in the
field
Oraon (Kudukh) Tribe

A doringly addressed as Simon

Baba, he lived in a village bereft
of irrigation facilities. His suggestion
of constructing a dam was received
by his fellow villagers with derision.
Brimming with confidence and with
an indomitable zeal, Simon Ji started
single handedly and was subsequently
joined by his villagers and fashioned
out a 45 feet high dam on ‘Jharia Nala’.

40 |
 Padma Shri Late Dr. Ram Dayal Munda Ms. Chami Murmu
Internationally renowned Linguist & Litterateur Conservationist
Ex Vice Chancellor Ranchi University Nari Shakti Puraskar Awardee
Ex Member Rajya Sabha Santhal Tribe
Padma Shri 2010 in the field of Cultural Affairs & Literature
Munda Tribe

I n 1982, Dr. Ram Dayal Munda returned to

India after a tenure as Associate Professor in the
Department of South Asian Studies, University
A powerful voice against illegal deforestation
by jungle mafia, depredations by Naxalites
and poaching of wildlife, Ms. Chami Murmu has
of Minesota, U.S.A. Upon his return, he joined pronded yeoman service in the field as a unique
Ranchi University and laid the foundation of the tree loving environmentalist. In the last two-and-
Department of Tribal and Regional Languages. half decades, she has planted close to 2.5 million
Under his aegis, the tribal folk art including local perennial trees. Her praiseworthy efforts have led
‘Paika Dance’ received global recognition. He to her being awarded Nari Shakti Puraskar in the
authored various tomes of lyrical poetry, verses year 2020.
and prose in Mundari, Nagpuri, Panchpargania
and English.
A connoisseur of tribal music, he exhorted his
fellow tribals to keep on playing the Mandar (tribal
drum) while going to work, during the rest and
even when tiredness & ennui afflicts

| 41
42 |
Shri Hemant Soren
A youthful & Popular Chief Minister, Jharkhand
Y ear 2009 brought unprecedented upheaval
in the life of this student of Mechanical
Engineering in Birla Institute of Technology,
Santhal Tribe Mesra, Ranchi. This led to Hemant Ji abandoning
his studies and hit the political trail in an existential
paradigm shift. Starting his political career as a
Member of Parliament in the Upper House- Rajya
Sabha, Hemant Ji has been the Chief Minister
of the state twice. An adroit practitioner of the
political chessboard, he has been able to blend
efforts for the amelioration of the destitute tribals
coupled with all-round development of the state.
Exhibiting sagacity far beyond his years, he has
surprised pundits by taking stunningly prudent &
path-breaking political initiatives.

| 43
 Shri Rajeev Topno
I.A.S.
Senior Advisor to the Executive Director,
World Bank, U.S.A.
Munda Tribe
T his 1996 batch I.A.S. Officer of
Gujarat cadre has been PA to the
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Presently, he is a Senior Advisor
to the Executive Director, Finance
Department, International Bank of
Reconstruction & Development aka
the World Bank.
44 |
Shri Amrit Lugun
IFS
Indian Foreign Service
Indian Ambassador to Greece
Munda Tribe
A 1989 batch I.F.S. Officer, Amrit
Lugun is our Ambassador to Greece.
He has held distinguished and
important assignments in Sudan,
Yemen, Nepal, Philippines, Algeria,
France and Qatar.
Prof. Ms. Sonajharia Minz
Vice Chancellor, Sido Kanhu Murmu
University, Jharkhand
Oraon Tribe
A n M. Phil. and Ph.D. in Computer
Sciences from Jawaharlal Nehru
University (JNU), New Delhi, Ms. Sona
Jharia Minz has been heading Sidhu
Kanhu University as Vice Chancellor.
Prior to this, she was the head of
Computer Sciences department of
her alma mater, JNU. Admirably
competent in her organisational
and administrative capabilities, Prof.
Sona Jharia Minz presided over the
Teachers’ Association in the JNU.
 Ms. Surmai Tete
Former Captain and Coach of Indian
Women’s Hockey team
Kharia Tribe
A warded the prestigious
Dhyanchand award by the
President of India, Ms. Sumrai Tete
has been a member of the gold medal
winning Indian Women’s hockey team
in the 2002 Commonwealth Games
and 2004 Asia Cup. She also won
silver medal in 1996 Asia Cup and
2006 Commonwealth games. Brand
Ambassador of Hockey Jharkhand,
Ms. Tete is an inspiration for young
girls.
Ms. Salima Tete
Former Captain Indian Jr. Women’s
Hockey Team
Member Indian Sr. Women’s Hockey Team
Kharia Tribe
A silver medallist of the 2018
Youth Games held in Tokyo,
Japan. A midfielder par excellence
she has been a member of the Indian
Sr. Women’s Hockey team winning
bronze medal in the 2022 Asia Cup.
She also featured in the 2020 (held in
2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic)
Tokyo Olympics. She is rightly held as
a youth icon for tribal girls.
Ms. Binita Soren
First tribal woman conqueror of
Mt. Everest
Santhal Tribe
A native of Seraikella-Kharsawan,
Ms. Binita Soren has the unique
distinction of being the first tribal
to unfurl the tricolour atop Mt.
Everest. A keen and daring adventure
enthusiast, Ms. Binita Soren has been
a member of all women team to
traverse the Thar desert in Rajasthan
bordering Pakistan. She rode a camel
to successfully perform a journey of
2000 km. from Kutch in Gujarat to
Wagah border post in Punjab.
| 45
 Ms. Kanchan Ugursandi
First Biker to reach Sasar La in Ladakh

Ho Tribe

M s. Kanchan Ugursandi a highly

accomplished biker is the first biker to
reacher Sasar La (Sasar Pass) situated 37 km.
southeast of Siachen glacier. Internationally
renowned as the ‘Biker girl’, Ms. Ugursandi
picks up the gauntlet in every challenge with
supreme confidence.

46 |
Bihar

Padma Shri Chittu Tudu
A multitalented litterateur
Padma Shri 1992 in the field of fine arts
Santhal Tribe
D uring our struggle
independence from the British,
for
Chittu Tudu Ji acted as interpreter for
national leaders. He connected well with
tribal masses and spread the message
of ‘Swaraj’ in the remotest nooks and
corners of the tribal belt. Holding
public office post-independence, he
composed Santhali ballads and odes,
organised scattered groups of tribal
dancers and did pioneering work in
according unprecedented respect for
this art form.
48 |
Padma Shri Bhagwat
Murmu ‘Thakur’
First Santhal Padma Shri Awardee
Padma Shri 1985 for social service
Santhal Tribe
P adma Shri Bhagwat Murmu
‘Thakur’ composed poetry, wrote
stories and lyrical verses in Santhali,
Bangla and Hindi. He collected
Santhali folk songs and got them
published in book form in Devanagari
script. Many such compilations by him
are included in the syllabi at university
level. A strong voice for the tribal
communities, Murmu Ji was elected as
member of Bihar Legislative Assembly
as well as the Legislative Council.
Smt. Angelina Tigga
Member of the first Rajya Sabha (Upper
house of the Indian Parliament)
Oraon Tribe
S mt. Angelina Tigga was elected as
the pioneering tribal lady Member
of the first Rajya Sabha (Upper house
of the Indian Parliament) in the year
1952. This opened a huge threshold
of political emancipation of tribal
women.
Padma Shri Rev. Joel
Lakra
Social service
Padma Shri in 1963
Oraon (Kudukh) Tribe
R
ev. Joel Lakra shall always be
remembered as a strong and
effective voice for social and political
empowerment of tribals.
West Bengal
 Padma Shri Kalipada Saren
A popular Santhal dramatist
Padma Shri in 2022 in the field of Literature & Education
Santhal Tribe
K alipada Saren Ji has been editing Santhali
magazines ‘Aven Sakva’ & ‘Kherwal Jaher’
and has also been called Kherwal Soren. Basically
a dramatist, Kalipada Soren Ji retired from SBI
and was awarded Padma Shri for his praiseworthy
literary achievement of composing a large body of
poems, lyrical verses, short stories and critiques in
Santhali language. Many dramas authored by him
have been staged and many of his anthologies have
been published.
50 |
Padma Shri Kamali Soren ‘Guru Maa’
Padma Shri 2021 for distinguished
voluntary social service amongst tribals
Santhal Tribe
P adma Shri Kamali Soren is heading the Vanvasi
Kalyan Ashram in Gazole town in Malda, West
Bengal. Reverentially called ‘Guru Maa’ (Mother
Teacher), Kamali Ji has been actively propagating
Hindu culture amongst tribals. Her emphasis
is on ‘Ghar Vapsi’ of tribals which have been
proselytised as Christians/Muslims. She calls this
not as religious conversion but a ‘Return to Home’
of our tribal brethren who were lured away due to
their ignorance.
Padma Shri Gambhir Singh Mura
Exponent of Purulia Chhau Dance
Padma Shri 1981 in fine arts
Bhumij Tribe

P adma Shri Gambhir Singh Mura was an

internationally renowned and legendary
impresario and promoter of ‘Chhau’ style of dance.
He exhibited this wonderful tribal art all over India
as well as in United Kingdom, France, Japan and
the United States of America.

| 51
Chhattisgarh
54 |
 A three time parliamentarian and three time Union
Minister, Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste happens to be
not only a popular politician but also a sterling example
of empowerment of our tribal communities. Belonging
to our largest Gond tribe, Kulaste Ji is renowned for
rediscovering those memorials of freedom fighters which
got obliterated due to callous neglect and mainly due to a
condescending bias against tribals. His efforts brought to
Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste light the fact that Chhattisgarh, known as Dakshin Kosala
in ancient times, happened to be the maternal family abode
Union Minister of State
Steel & Rural Development
of Lord Rama. About 300 years ago, this sprawling area
Govt of India was ruled by Gond kings through their 36 forts and hence
Gond Tribe the name Chhattisgarh (36 forts). He renovated a large
number of Gond forts and other memorials developing
these gems as tourist attractions. Important monuments
resurrected by Faggan Ji include Samadhi of Rani
Durgavati, Gond Museums dedicated to freedom fighters
Raja Shankar Shah & Kunwar Raghunath Shah, Palace of
Rani Kamla Pati, shrines dedicated to Founder of Gond
tribals Pari Kopar Lingo in Kachargarh, Gond Goddess
Kankali Mata , Sand Dev (Bull Lord Nandi) in Sewnee,
birthplace of Birsa Munda in Jharkhand, Mangarh Dham
Memorial on Gujarat border dedicated to the massacre
of 1500 tribals, just to name a few. He revived these
memorials, beautified them as our heritage and bestowed
immense efforts in preserving these monuments.
A tireless humanitarian, Faggan Ji deeply espouses efforts
for spreading quality education and health services
amongst our tribal brethren.

| 55
 Padma Vibhushan Dr. Teejan Bai
A renowned ‘Pandvani’ Singer
Padma Vibhushan in 2019
Padma Bhushan in 2003
Pdma Shri in 1988
Pardhan (Gond) Tribe

T eejan Bai has evolved a uniquely stylised

folk art of striding the stage, tanpura
in hand, sonorously singing tales from
Mahabharata epic. Her performances are
spell binding as she magically infuses the tales
with the individual/community members of
the audience. She has been an international
ambassador-at-large of our tribal cultural
heritage with repeat performances in about 40
countries including Germany, Japan, United
Kingdom, Italy, Russia, People’s Republic of
China.

56 |
58 |
Ms. Anusuiya Uikey
He Governor of Chhattisgarh
Gond (Puhum) Tribe
A highly pro-active and enlightened politician,
Ms. Uike has held a large number of political
offices with aplomb and distinction. Starting as
a teacher, she has held high offices as Minister,
Women & Child Welfare, Madhya Pradesh, Dy.
Chairman, National Commission for Traibal
Affairs and as Member of Rajya Sabha. She
has been instrumental in the establishment and
successful launch of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
| 59
 Padma Shri Bhuri Bai
A renowned painter
Padma Shri, 2021 in the field of fine arts
Bhil Tribe

‘P ithora style Painting’, a rich vein of

ancient Bhil tribal art, has been elevated
to an internationally recognised school due to
tireless efforts of Padma Shri Bhuri Bai. Rising
from the insignificant status as a daily wage
earning labour in the construction of Bharat
Bhavan, her paintings now adorn its tribal
arts exhibition hall in this museum in Bhopal,
Madhya Pradesh. There cannot be a more
eloquent testimony of the innate greatness of
this Bhil lady.

60 |
Padma Shri Bhajju Shyam
World famous Gond painter & illustrator of London
Jungle Book
Padma Shri in fine arts, 2018
Gond (Pardhan) Tribe

A fter taking art galleries in the United

Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany,
Russia, France by storm, Bhajju Ji has changed
the public and private lives of his native
Patangarh, Madhya Pradesh. Now this sleepy
town has become a thriving center of Gond
School of painting making its denizens earn
decent remuneration for this style of art
made famous by Bhajju Ji. He has successfully
incorporated British lives through his
quintessentially Indian works. His paintings
are coveted by collectors all over the world.

| 61
Rajasthan
 Padma Shri Gulabo Sapera
Internationally renowned danseuse
Padma Shri in fine arts, 2018
Kalbelia Tribe

B orn in Kalbelia tribal, infamous for

practicing female infanticide, Gulabo Ji
was buried in sand after her birth. Miraculously
she survived and earned stupendous success as
a danseuse of unparalleled charm & dexterity.
She has been dancing while singing self-
composed ballads earning accolades in Brazil,
Japan, the United Kingdom and the United
States of America. She has collaborated in
numerous shows with the famous French
composer Thierry ‘Titi’ Robin. Her ‘Kalbelia’
dance has been utilised in many Hindi feature
films. She reveres her stage as a sacred place
and her audience as divinity.

64 |
 Padma Shri Limbaram Ahari
Internationally renowned Archer
Padma Shri in Sports field, 2012
Ahari (Meena) Tribe

G old Medal winning archer in 1995

Commonwealth Archery Competition,
Limba Ram represented India in 3 Olympic Games.
A multiple medallist, he progressed to coaching
youngsters in modern archery. His successful
mentoring led to our young archers winning
3 gold, 1 silver and 4 bronze medals in the 2010
Commonwealth Games held in New Delhi.

| 65
Maharashtra
 Padma Shri Jivya Soma Mashe
Famous Warli style painter
PadmaShri in fine arts, 2011
Warli Tribe

A n exponent of ‘Warli’ style of tribal

paintings having its hoary origins
in western India, Jivya Soma Mashe
garnered international renown during
his life time (1934-2018). Regarded as
a creator of highly eloquent colourful
drawings, his creations adorn many
drawing rooms/art galleries in First
World countries. His paintings have
been interpreted as visual music in
colours.

68 |

Padma Shri Rahibai Soma Popere
A proponent of Organic Agriculture
Padma Shri in Agri-field, 2020
A Mahadev (Koli) Tribe
B orn in 1964, Padma Shri Rahibai Soma Popere
is an Indian farmer and conservationist. She
has guided farmers back to indigenous methods
of farming which are deeply rooted in organic
practices in developing native crops including
hyacinth beans. She has developed a rich bank of
seeds native to our country and has organised ‘self
help groups’ towards this. Her seed bank has 122
types of seeds for 32 major/minor crops. Farmers
are lent seeds with the proviso that they will deposit
back double the quantity upon harvest.
| 69
Gujarat
72 |
Shri Mangubhai Chaganbhai Patel
Governor Madhya Pradesh
Kokna Tribe
A n Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh volunteer,
Mangubhai Chhaganbhai is well known for
his organisational acumen, popularity amongst
tribals characterised by his utter humility. He has
been appointed the 19th Governor of Madhya
Pradesh. Earlier, he has been a six time Member
of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly as well as
holding office as Minister of various departments
in the state. He has held the office of the Dy.
Speaker and Pro-tem Speaker of the Gujarat
State Legislature apart from adorning the chair of
Tribal Development Corporation, Gandhinagar.
| 73
 Padma Shri Late Dadudan Gadhvi
Folk litrattuer famous as ‘Kavi Dad’
Padma Shri in 2021 in the field of literature & education
Chaaran Tribe
F amous as ‘Kavi Dan’, Chaaran versifier Dadudan
Pratapdan Misan Gadhvi was formally educated
upto class IV only. A repository of extraordinarily
‘D
rich vein of literature, his immense contribution
is uniquely rich leading to multiple Ph.D.s. People
in Gujarat have been enchanted by his mellifluous
singing for 50 years, making him an immortal
folk artiste. Odes composed by him are sung on
marriages and on other happy occasions.
74 |
Padma Shri Bhikhudan Govindbhai Gadhavi
Dayro Singer
Padma Shri in 2016
Chaaran Tribe
ayro’, a distinct style of folk singing has
been an integral part of the cultural domain
prevalent in and around Surat in Gujarat. These
versified folk stories encompass a magnetism
attracting people. Padma Shri Bhikhudan Gadhvi
has recorded more than 359 albums and the
numbers are increasing. An must in assemblies of
Gujarati literature and music, Bhikhudan Ji enjoys
unprecedented public accolade and respect.
Padma Shri Diwaliben Punjabhai Bhil
Playback singer
Padma Shri in 1990
Bhil Tribe
S tarting as a janitor in an apothecary, Diwaliben
achieved fame as a bhajan and folk singer
earning the sobriquet of ‘Koyal of Gujarat. She
F amous as “Bhagat Bapu” and “Kag Bapu”,
has performed as a playback singer in umpteen
Gujarati films and has released numerous audio
albums. Always attired traditionally even when
performing overseas, Diwaliben invariably covers
her head in a very humble and demure manner.
Padma Shri Kavi Dula Bhaya ‘Kag’
Incomparable lyricist - “Bhagat Bapu”
Padma Shri in 1962
Chaaran (Gadhvi) Tribe
Kavi Dula Bhaya Kag was a modern-day
Valmiki. He used to say that a song which does
not pierce the heart of listeners as a sharp arrow
is meaningless. His language was colloquial and his
repertoire including fables from the Ramayana.
His poems form the curricula of primary schools
upto post graduate studies in Gujarat. Renowned
Ram Katha Vachak Sant Morari Bapu Ji called him
‘Kaag Rishi’.
| 75
Kerala
 Padma Shri Lakshmi Kutti
Traditional medicine healer
Padma Shri in 2018
Kanikkar Tribe
78 |
A denizen of the Kallar forested area of
Thiruvananthapuram, Lakshmi Kitty is known as
Vanamuthassi - Grandmother of forest. She prepares
about 500 herbal medicines based on hoary and almost
lost traditional medical formulae. She has a highly effective
snakebite antidote and visitors from foreign countries call
on her for medicines for their ailments. She has also written
a book and her pharmacopoeia highlights the therapeutic
wealth in herbs found in our forests.
Meghalaya
 Captain Keishing Clifford Nongrum
Maha Vir Chakra (posthumous)
Tangkhul Tribe
A commissioned officer of 12 Jammu &
Kashmir Light Infantry, Captain Keishing
Clifford Nomgrum was awarded the second highest
decoration of Maha Vir Chakra (posthumous) for
his exemplary valour and ultimate sacrifice during
the 1999 Kargil war. He bravely defended Point 4812
in the Batalik sector on the night of the 30th June,
1999 pushing back the enemy forces. His actions
spoke eloquently of his indomitable courage,
exceptional leadership, grim determination,
praiseworthy tactical acumen & planning.
80 |
Padma Vibhushan Late Purno Agitok Sangma
Popular politician and Speaker, Lok Sabha
Padma Vibhushan 2019
Garo Tribe
A n accomplished public communicator, an able
organiser and a never-say-die politician, Late
P. A. Sangma had a highly illustrious political career
as a legislator, leader of opposition, Chief Minister
of Meghalaya, parliamentarian, Union Minister and
Speaker of Lok Sabha. He brought honours for his
Garo tribe through his accomplishments and public
service. Based on his wide ranging experiences,
he compiled a book which more than adequately
reflects his love for his country his dedication to
public service.
 Padma Shri Trinity Saioo
Agronomist famous for growing Lakadong variety of turmeric
Padma Shri 2020
A Jaintia Pahari Tribe
P admaShri Triniyu Saioo has been growing
‘Lakadong’ variety of high curcumin content
turmeric famous for its unique taste and aroma.
She is also an able organiser, businesswoman and
teacher in the field of organic farming. Under her
leadership, 800 farmer-women of Jaintia Hills have
formed Life Spice foundation for farming and
marketing ‘Lakadong’ variety of turmeric which is
exported to many countries.
Padma Shri Neil Herbert Nongkynrih
Jazz Pianist
Padma Shri 2015
Khasi Tribe
A n accomplished jazz pianist, PadmaShri
Neil Herbert Nongkynrih is the founder
of the famous Shillong Chamber Choir. He
has collaborated with London Concert and
Vienna Chamber Orchestra while performing on
international stages. With a view to rejuvenating
Khasi language, he has composed a musical ‘Opera
Sohlinggame’ based on tribal folk tales. This
creation earned wide appreciation and accolades.
| 81
 Padma Shri Late
Skendrowell Syiemlieh
Khasi lyricist
Padma Shri 2009
Khasi Tribe
‘D uitara’, a 4 string musical
instrument took a life of its
own in the hands of Late Skendrowell
Syiemlieh. His music was enchantingly
mellifluous and native. He played
guitar and violin also while crooning
folk songs in his Khasi mother tongue.
Apart from his musical genius, he was
also a chronicler of the hithertofore
obscure history of his tribe.
82 |
Padma Shri Silverine Swer
A lifelong crusader for girls’ education
Padma Shri 1990
Khasi Tribe
U ndaunted by her advancing age,
Padma Shri Silverine Swer has
relentlessly striven for girls’ education.
She has also adorned the Chair of
Meghalaya State Social Advisory
Board. In 1975, she presided over the
International Year of the Woman. She
has led a rich and varied life as a teacher,
social worker and environmentalist.
Shri James Michael
Lyngdoh, IAS
Indian Administrative Services
Former Chief Election Commissioner of India
Khasi Tribe
S elected as an IAS Officer at the
young age of 22, Shri JM Lyngdoh
was appointed as the 12th Chief
Election Commissioner of India in
the year 2001. A Ramon Magasaysay
awardee, Shri Lyngdoh has also written
a book on the Indian election process
from the perspective of the Election
Commission of India.
Tripura
 Padma Shri Maitya
Ram (Satyaram) Reang
A Reang folk dance Guru
Padma Shri 2021
Reang (Bru) Tribe
A native of the northeastern
Tripura State, Satyaram Ji is a
maestro of ‘Hojagiri’ dance which is
performed by 4/6 women with the
traditional ‘Bodo’ bottles balanced on
their heads and a generic ‘Kupi’ lighted
lamp in their hands. These dancers are
accompanied by men crooning and
playing their ‘Sumi’ wind instruments.
This was a virtually extinct art which
was brilliantly revived by Padma Shri
Satyaram Reang. He is not only an
exponent of this picturesque dance
form but has also been teaching it to
youngsters. He has established a dance
academy for this purpose.
84 |
Padma Shri Late
Benichandra Jamatia
Folk litterateur and singer
Padma Shri in 2020
Jamatia Tribe
A virtuoso of the self-designed
‘Teentara instrument’, Late
Benichandra Ji was basically an
spiritualist. He composed innumerable
songs in Kokborok language
dedicated to Lord Krishna with the
epic Mahabharata as inspiration. As a
garland is made up of various flowers,
Benichandra Ji compiled an anthology
of such songs using English, Latin and
Kokborok languages. He famously
sang these songs in an enchanting
manner.
Padma Shri Thanga
Darlong
A preserver of traditional music
Padma Shri in 2019
Darlong Tribe
A centenarian aged 102, Padma
Shri Thanga Darlong, a native
of Tripura, has been instrumental in
preserving the ‘Rojem’, a traditional
musical instrument. He has also
dedicated his life to teaching youngsters
in playing the ‘Rojem’ which is made
with bamboo and produces liltingly
musical notes which make everyone
dance.
Manipur
 Padma Vibhushan
M.C. Mary Kom
Internationally renowned boxer
Winner of Olympic Bronze medal
Padma Vibhushan in 2020
Padma Bhusan in 2013
Padma Shri in 2006
Kom Rem Tribe

A n illustrious daughter of India, Ms

Mary Kom, a Manipur native has
brought home unprecedented laurels on
account of her exploits in the boxing ring all
over the world. She has been a nominated
member of the Rajya Sabha having been
honoured with all three Padma awards
viz. Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and
Padma Vibhushan. Her tireless struggle in
achieving boxing glory has been detailed
in her biography ‘Unbreakable’. Further,
her life has been told in the Hindi bio-
pic ‘Mary Kom’. She has always taken up
cudgels on behalf of players for providing
just and reasonable facilities including
nutritional diet and adequate lodgings for
their advancement. She has drawn attention
to this aspect by observing succinctly that
“First you put your life on the line so that
you win a medal. Subsequently, you put
your medal on the line so that your life is
secured”.

86 |
Padma Shri Guru Rewben Mashangva
Naga folk singer and music maestro
Padma Shri in 2021
Tangkhul Naga Tribe
C redited with revival of Naga folk music,
Guru Rewben Mashangwa plays a self
designed traditional Naga fiddle named ‘Yangkhui’
apart from playing guitar, flute and harmonica.
‘Yangkhui’ consists of an about 3 feet long thin
bamboo flute with 4 notational holes which have
horsehair strands. He is also a musical researcher
and designer of folk musical instruments. He has
composed many Naga folk songs based on western
music viz. blues and ballads which have brought
him international renown.
Padma Shri Major Late Ralengnao Khathing
Indian Envoy to Burma (Now Myanmar)
Padma Shri in 1957
A Tangkhul Naga Tribe
A n able administrator, Major Ralengnao
Khating was the first Dy. Commissioner of
Mokokchong district and later on was appointed
Chief Secretary of Nagaland. During his
incumbency, he established Nagaland Armed Police
and the Naga Regiment. An armyman, Padma Shri
Major Khating was appointed India’s Ambassador
to Burma (now Myanmar) in 1972 becoming the
first tribal to hold an ambassadorial assignment.
| 87
 Shri Armstrong Pame, I.A.S.
Miracle Man of India
Jeme (Kachha) Naga Tribe
88 |
A n Indian Administrative Service officer of the 2009 batch,
Shri Armstrong Pame, posted in Manipur, is known as the
Miracle Man. Famous for his unique effort in raising through his
personal efforts Rs.50.00 lakh for construction of a highway, he has
contributed immensely in development of road communications.
This highway connecting Assam and Nagaland is called the
‘People’s Road’. He was felicitated in California by Facebook for
his praiseworthy use of the social media.
Nagaland
 Shri H. K. Sema
Justice of the Supreme Court of India
Sumi Naga Tribe
M r. Justice H.K. Sema was a Justice of the
Supreme Court of India from the 6th April,
2002 to the 1st June, 2008. Prior to this Justice
Sema was also a Judge of the Kohima bench of
Guwahati High Court, the High Court of Jammu
& Kashmir and the Gujarat High Court. He has
also provided his services as the Chairperson of
the Human Rights Commission of Uttar Pradesh.
90 |
Late Ms. N.N. Haralu
Indian Ambassador to Panama
Jeme Naga Tribe
A n Indian Foreign Services Officer, Late
Ms. N.N. Haralu was appointed Indian
Ambassador to the Republic of Panama. She also
officiated as our envoy to Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
She was posted in our embassies in Belgium, Italy
and Sri Lanka. Subsequent to her retirement, she
presided over the Nagaland State Social Welfare
Board Advisory Committee.
Padma Bhushan Dr. S. C. Jamir
Architect of modern Nagaland
Padma Bhushan in 2020
P adma Bhushan Senayangba Chubatoshi Jamir
has the unique distinction of working during
the incumbencies of our first Prime Minister
Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru upto the present PM Shri
Narendra Modi. A parliamentary secretary under Pt.
Nehru, he has been a 7 times MLA, Chief Minister
of Nagaland for 5619 days, Member of Lok Sabha
as well as Rajya Sabha and a Minister of State in
the Union Government. A highly experienced and
sagacious politician, he was Governor of Goa,
Gujarat, Maharashtra and Odisha.
Padma Bhushan Rani Gaidinliu
‘Lakshmibai’ of Nagaland
Padma Bhushan 1982
Rongmai (Kabui) Naga Tribe
P adma Bhushan Rani Gaidinliu organised
disparate Naga tribes to fight British
imperialism. Her fearless disposition and brilliance
has led to her deification as a goddess amongst
Naga tribes. Despite this, she had to spent many
years underground as well as being gaoled even
after independence. A daughter of the Naga
Hills, a freedom fighter, a selfless politician and a
tireless social worker, Rani Gaidinliu had a lifelong
commitment to conserving the unique ‘Hareka
Culture’. In her centenary year of 2015, Prime
Minster Narendra Modi released commemorative
Rs.5 and Rs.100 coins honouring this grand Naga
lady.
| 91
 Padma Shri T. Senka Ao
Renowned Journalist & Author
Padma Shri in 2020
Ao Naga Tribe
A n author of 9 books in Ao language which are
part of Nagaland Board of School curricula,
Padma Shri T Senka Ao has been the Chief Editor of
‘Ao Milan’, the first periodical in Ao Naga language
started in 1933. He has developed the ‘Alokaba’ a
light hearted character for social comments.
92 |
Padma Shri Lentina Ao Thakkar
Gandhian Granny ‘Utsu’
Padma Shri in 2018
Ao Naga Tribe
S preading Gandhian thoughts and philosophy
amidst the Naga hills, Lentina Ao Thakkar was
actively associated as a volunteer in the Kasturba
Ashram, Guwahati for close to six decades.
Educated only upto class VI, she embodied the
best of a woman and a selfless human being.
 Padma Shri M.
Piyongtemjen Jamir
Introduced Hindi in Nagaland
Padma Shri in 2018
Ao Naga Tribe
A school teacher, Piyong Temjen
Jamir was the Principal of
Rashtrabhasha Hindi Siksha Sansthan,
Dimapur, Nagaland. There were
days that leave alone studying Hindi
language, nobody in Nagaland even
spoke it. It is only due to his untiring
efforts, close to 4000 students appear
in Hindi tests every year held under
the aegis of the Sansthan. PadmaShri
Peyong Temjen Jamir deserves
unstinted praise for this singular
achievement.
Padma Shri Late
Tokheho H. Sema
Social Worker and Politician
Padma Shri in 2016
Sumi Naga Tribe
P admaShri Tokheho Sema was
instrumental in the creation of
Nagaland state in the year 1961 and
was actively associated with political
activities till 2016 being elected as
three time MLA and a Minister in the
State Government.
Padma Shri Neidonuo
Angami
Founder of Naga Mothers Association
Padma Shri in 2020
Angami Tribe
S tarting her career as Sub-Inspector,
Nagaland Police, Smt. Neidonuo
Angami took up the twin menace
of alcoholism and drug addiction by
setting up Naga Mothers Association.
She also strove to bring Naga rebels in
the mainstream coining the slogan ‘No
more bloodshed’. Not for nothing,
she is called ‘Mother of Peace’.
| 93
 Padma Shri
Mayangnokcha Ao
Eminent Educationist and author
Padma Shri in 1984
Ao Naga Tribe
P erhaps the first Naga graduate,
Mayangnokchao Ji pursued his
primary education assisted by a paltry
scholarship of Rs. 3/- per mensem.
He also worked as Principal of the
oldest school in Nagaland set up by
American missionaries in the year
1895. This heritage school named
Clark Memorial Higher Secondary
School is still running. He also
transliterated many religious tracts,
psalms and hymns in Naga language.
94 |
Padma Shri Rev. L.
Kijungluba Ao Padma Shri
Social services amongst Naga tribals Chubalemla Ao
Padma Shri in 1981 Women’s Empowerment Leader
Ao Naga Tribe Padma Shri in 1981 for social services
Ao Naga Tribe
B aptist missionaries not only built
churches in Nagaland but also
popularised Holy Bible amongst
(Details & photograph unavailable)
Naga tribals. In this field, Padma
Shri Reverend L. Kijungluba Ao
uniquely contributed by getting the
Bible translated in about 70 languages
prevalent in Northeastern India. This
he accomplished in his capacity as the
Secretary of Nagaland Baptist Church
Council. Easy of disposition in mixing
with masses, Padma Shri Reverend L.
Kijungluba Ao strove for peace during
Naga insurgency.
Karnataka
 Padma Shri Amai Mahalinga Naik
The Tunnel Man of Karnataka
Padma Shri in 2022 for pioneering agricultural work
Naik Tribe
A modern innovative farmer, Amai Mahalinga
Naik converted his barren field in Adyanadaka
village, South Canara district, Karnataka into a
highly fertile tract. Within a short time of 4 years,
he dug 7 canals in a plateau along with about 700
aquifers in the nearby hillocks leading to well
irrigated farmland.
96 |
Padma Shri Smt. Tulsi Gowda
Living encyclopedia of forests
Padma Shri in 2020
Halakki Tribe
A 78 year old tribal, Padma Shri Smt. Tulsi Gowda
is widely known as Living encyclopaedia
of forests on account of her intimate knowledge
about a very large number of forest flora. She has
planted millions of trees during the last six decades.
A life dedicated to environmental preservation, she
holds the truism that ‘tribals are there because of
the forests and forests are there because of tribals’.
Padma Shri Dr. Doddarange Gowda
Kannada film lyricist
Padma Shri in 2018
Goddalu Tribe
A n accomplished Kannada litterateur, a
wordsmith par excellence and a master of
the language, Doddarange Gowda Ji has penned
bewitching songs for Kannada films. Apart from
more than 500 songs, he has also scripted dialogue
and scenarios for many films and television serials.
An author of more than 80 books/audio albums,
he has been nominated as a Member of Karnataka
State Legislative Council.
Padma Shri Sukri Bommu Gouda
Folk singer
Padma Shri in 2017
A Halakki Vokkaliga Tribe
A virtual nightingale, ‘Ajji’ Padma Shri Sukri
Bommu Gouda a folk singer of rare merit
has worked as a farm labour. She has sung folk
songs for all occasions viz. birth, anniversary,
marriage and even for somber death. She has sung
while carrying out mundane jobs like farm work,
collecting firewood and even while fetching water.
She has an inexhaustible bank of songs.
| 97
 Padma Shri Vikas Shive Gowda
International athlete discus thrower
Padma Shri in 2017
Gowdalu Tribe
G old medallist in the 2014 Commonwealth Games
held in Scotland, Padma Shri Vikas Shive Gowda
has been a name to reckon with internationally as a
discuss thrower. His national record of a 66.28 meters
stands. He has won laurels all over the world.

98 |
Assam
 Padma Shri Jadav Payeng
Forest man of Assam
Padma Shri in 2015
A Missing (Miri) Tribe

M olimukhi forest spread over

more than 500 hectares
in Kokilamukh village of Assam
is a living tribute to the unique
contribution of Padma Shri
Jadav Payeng in environmental
protection. The thriving fauna in
this forest owe their lives to Jadav
Payeng Ji. Alluvial Sandy lands
formed by the Brahmaputra river
has been transformed into lush
forests through intensive tree
planting by him. His efforts have
been commemorated in Tamil/
Telugu/Hindi feature film -
‘Haathi Mere Saathi.

100 |
Shri Hari Shankar Brahma, Padma Shri Professor (Dr.) Padma Shri
I.A.S. Mangal Singh Hazowary Dr. Birubala Rabha
19th Chief Election Commissioner of India A Bodo litterateur Human Rights activities
Bodo (Assam) Tribe Padma Shri in 2021 Padma Shri in 2021
Bodo Tribe Rabha Tribe

A 1975 batch of I.A.S. belonging

to Andhra Pradesh cadre, Shri
Hari Shankar Brahma was the 19th
A prodigious litterateur in the Bodo
language Professor Mangal Singh
Hazowary has been a resplendent
P adma Shri Birubala Rabha has
waged a relentless war against the
superstitious ‘Dayan’ phenomenon
Chief Election Commissioner of star of the Eight Schedule Bodo
perpetrated by ‘Deodhoni’ who claim
India from 16.01.2015 to 18.04.2015. language. A maiden Bodo awardee of
to be reincarnation of tribal deities.
the Sahitya Academy Literary Award,
General elections held in 2014 under This has led to a significant reduction
Mangal Singh Hazowary has authored
his commissionership led to the
many books. in murder of women dubbed as
Bhartiya Janta Party winning 282 Lok
‘Dayans’. She has been nominated for
Sabha seats out of 336 seats won by
the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize in
the National Democratic Alliance.
This led to Shri Narendra Modi the year 2005.
debuting in the Lok Sabha and getting
appointed as the Prime Minister of our
Republic. In elections for various state
assemblies, Brahma Ji successfully
curbed the twin menace of money
and muscle power.

| 101
 Padma Shri
Dr. Kameswar Brahma
Bodo litterateur & culture icon
Padma Shri in 2016
Bodo Tribe
A famous litterateur Dr. Kameswar
Brahma has produced a large
body of writings with socio-economic
issues of Bodo tribals as the central
theme. He has also worked tirelessly
for educating Bodo youngsters. He has
chaired Bodo Sahitya Sabha dedicated
to Bodo language and literature. There
are many publications based on deep
research conducted by Dr. Brahma on
the subjects of Bodo language and
culture.
102 |
Padma Shri
Prof. Ms. Temsula Ao
Ethnographer
Padma Shri in 2007
An Ao Naga Tribe
A retired professor of
Northeastern Hills University,
Prof. Ms. Temsula Ao is widely
the
recognised as the unique voice of
tribals. She has written stories, poems,
memoirs and ethnograph's on this
subject. Her books and collections
have been translated in German,
French, Assamese, Bangla and Hindi.
Padma Shri Madaram
Brahma
Famous Bodo poet and dramatist
Padma Shri in 1988
Bodo Tribe
A ppointed a Block Development
Officer in 1948, Padma Shri
Madaram Brahma was probably the
first Bodo tribal to be appointed a
Government Officer. Committed
to social upliftment of Bodoa, he
encouraged spread of education and
literacy amongst the tribals. He made
lasting contribution to Kokrajhar
Vidyapeeth High School, Kokrajhar
Higher Secondary School and B.T.
College. An accomplished Bodo poet
and dramatist, Madaram Brahma Ji
enriched Bodo tribal culture in a highly
praiseworthy manner.
Arunachal Pradesh
 Padma Shri Yeshe Dorjee Thongchi
Assamese novelist
Padma Shri in 2020
A Sherdukpen (Arunachal Pradesh) Tribe

A distinguished and long standing Dy.

Commissioner in the North East,
Padma Shri Yeshe Dorjee Thongchi has been
the interface of the Northeastern tribes with
the rest of India through his novels. Endowed
with a simple style and flowing everyday
language, he also composed many dramas and
plays.
He touched on issues like polyandry, widow
marriage, remarriage, rebirth concepts
prevailing amongst Northeastern tribes. Many
of these stories were retold through feature
films which earned National Awards.

104 |
Padma Shri Ms. (Dr.) Anshu Jamsenpa
A mountaineer having climbed Mt. Everest 5 times
Padma Shri in 2021
Monpa Tribe (Arunachal Pradesh)
S uccessfully scaling 3 Himalayan peaks in 6 days,
Padma Shri Anshu Jamsenpa has the unique
distinction of climbing Mt. Everest twice within a
season. In the year 2014, she scaled Lobuche East
on 13th May, Pokhalde Peak on the 16th May and
Iceland Peak on the 18th May. Dr. Anshu Jamsenpa
has been a distinguished member of National
Institute of Mountaineering & Allied Sports,
Arunachal Pradesh.
Padma Shri Ms. Binny Yanga
Contributions in the field of women’s empowerment and education
Padma Shri in 2012
Nyishi (Arunachal Pradesh) Tribe
A n institute for destitute girls in Sepa village
run under Oju Welfare Association nurtured
by Padma Shri Ms. Binny Yanga provides free
education, orphanage for children, creche, a day
care centre, temporary shelter for working women,
family counselling and women’s assistance centre.
Ms. Binny Yanga is also actively associated with
marketing of traditional artisanal products.
| 105
 Padma Shri Dr. Mamang Dai
Renowned Journalist
I n 1979, Ms. Mamang Dai became the first woman
in Arunachal Pradesh to be selected in the I.A.S.
However, she chose a career in journalism. She
Padma Shri in 2011 contributed to reputed journals viz. The Telegraph,
The Statesman, Hindustan Times and The Sentinel
Adi Tribe
etc. She also provided her services to the All India
Radio, Itanagar. She has also done pioneering
research in the flora and fauna in Eastern Himalayas.

106 |
Sikkim
 Padma Shri Bhaichung Bhutia
Renowned Arjuna Award winning footballer
Padma Shri in 2008
Bhutia Tribe

S coring his first international goal at

the age of 18, Padma Shri Bhaichung
Bhutia has represented India in 104
matches scoring 40 goals before opting
for retirement from competitive soccer.
He has managed & coached the Sikkim
Football team and also set up Indian Sports
Foundation for helping sportspersons
suffering debilitating injuries. He has
collaborated with famous Portuguese
soccer coach Carlos Queiroz and Nike
shoes in setting up a soccer school in
New Delhi. Sikkim State Government
has constructed a 30000 capacity soccer
stadium in Namchi named Bhaichung
Bhutia Football Stadium.

108 |
Padma Shri Khandu Wangchuk Bhutia
‘Thanka’ Painter
Padma Shri in 2022
Bhutia (Sikkim) Tribe
P adma Shri Khandu Wangchuk Bhutia has
made ‘Thanka’ art-a well-known school of
painting & decoration. He has trained more
than 350 persons in this art which encompasses
a distinct style of painting, wood carving and
carpet weaving. Widespread over a large swathe of
Himalayas including Sikkim, Ladakh and Arunachal
Pradesh, these paintings depict Lord Buddha in
various incarnations on cotton & silk. Padma Shri
Khandu Wangchuk Bhutia has made this art form
internationally famous.
Padma Shri Ms. Hildamit Lepcha
Folk singer
Padma Shri in 2013
A Lepcha Tribe
S erving in the Cultural & Heritage Department of
the Sikkim State Government, Hildamit Lepcha
has participated in numerous musical programmes.
She has sings in a liltingly mellifluous voice and
also has rare expertise in playing various traditional
Sikkimese musical instruments viz. tunbuk, sutsang,
palit keng, nayim briot palit, tungdar bong etc. She
is an accomplished folk singer, poet-lyricist, essayist
and playwright with many books, anthologies and
albums published.
| 109
 Padma Shri Norden
Tshering Bhutia
Famous Sikkimese Philologist
Padma Shri in 2009
Bhutia Tribe
W hile being posted as a Inspector
of government schools,
Norden Tshering Bhutia continued his
deep research on Sikkimese languages,
especially Lepcha and Limbu dialects.
A novelist, short story writer and
playwright, Padma Shri Norden
Tshering Bhutia has also translated
religious books into local Sikkimese
languages. He has also produced
school textbooks of grammar as well
as prose & verse anthologies.
110 |
Padma Shri Ms. Keepu
Tsering Lepcha
Mother Teresa of Sikkim
Padma Shri in 2009
Lepcha Tribe
F amous as Mother Teresa of Sikkim,
Ms. Keepu Tshering Lepcha a social
worker educationist has established
Human Development Foundation of
Sikkim. An administrative officer, she
has been famous as the Mother Teresa
of Sikkim. Lepcha Cottage has been
set up by her which provides care and
education to about 100 children.
Padma Shri Ren Sonam
Tshering Lepcha
Folk singer
PadmaShri in 2007
A Lepcha Tribe
L ovingly called Rong Lapone
- Lepcha Master, Padma Shri
Ren Sonam Tshering Lepcha is
rightly credited for Lepcha cultural
renaissance. Now they say that as
stars do not fall on earth, Lepcha
culture also cannot be decimated only
due to the efforts of this tireless folk
music maestro. He is also known for
his research of Sikkimese musical
instruments. Many of his contributions
adorn Lepcha Museum.
Andaman & Nicobar
 Padma Shri Shanti Teresa Lakra
Nurse amongst virtually extinct aborigines of the Andaman Islands
PadmaShri in 2011
Onge Tribe

C ensus data of 2011 show that there are barely

100 Onge tribals surviving in the Andaman
Islands. Padma Shri Shanti Teresa Lakra has
dedicated herself towards providing nursing and
child-birth assistance to these virtually extinct
aborigines. The devastating Tsunami in 2004
almost wiped our habitation of these people who
were then housed in makeshift tents erected by the
government. Shanti Teresa Lakra Ji continued her
tireless work in these temporary shelters.

112 |
Mizoram
 Shri T. Zoramthanga
International Boxer
Kuki (Chin) Tribe

T . Ziramthanga was the first Indian boxer

to win a Bronze medal in World Boxing
Championships. He featured in many international
bouts with distinction. He was appointed Sports
Development Officer by the State Government of
Mizoram.

114 |
Telangana
 Padma Shri Kanaka Raju
Folk dancer
Padma Shri in 2021
Rajgond Tribe

A ‘Gussadi’ folk dance maestro, Padma Shri

Kanaka Raju has revived this folk dance
form which was on the verge of extinction.
He is training youngsters in this ‘Gussadi’
folk dance for the last 40 years. He has
performed in the Republic Day Parade in the
year 1981. Connoisseurs including foreigners
are enchanted when it is performed by artistes
adorned in deer antlers, faux moustaches &
beards and peacock feathers clad in goatskin
turban with ash smeared bodies.

116 |
Padma Shri Sakini Ramachandraiah
Folk singer and ‘Dhol’ player
Padma Shri in 2022
Koya Tribe

P adma Shri Sakini Ramachandraiah has been

hugely instrumental in reviving the virtually
extinct ‘Kanchumelam-Kanchuthalam’ musical
tradition of Koya (Telangana) tribals. He is a well-
known folk singer and ‘Dhol’ instrumentalist.
His repertoire includes ballads extolling ancient
warriors and kings. He is illustriously passing on
this rich tradition to the younger generation.

| 117
 Ms. Ajmeera Bobby
First tribal commercial pilot
Banjara (Lambadi) Tribe

I n the wise words of President APJ

Kalam - Dreams evolve in thoughts and
thoughts lead to action. Ms. Bobby Ajmera
has brought these words to fruition by
becoming our first tribal commercial pilot
flying Airbus A320 aircrafts. Joining as an
Air Hostess in Air India, she was trained
as a pilot in the Dean International Flying
School, USA. A huge inspiration for our
youth, hers is a life which has soared sky
high from a thatched roof.

118 |
Jammu & Kashmir
 Padma Shri Mohammad Din Jagir
Padma Shri in 1966 for Social Service
Bakarwal Tribe

I n 1965, Pakistan Army had planned invasion

of Kashmir under ‘Operation Gibraltar’.
Unscrupulous intruders infiltrated Indian Territory
and started mingling amongst the populace. This
raised suspicion in the mind of Mohammad Din
Jagir, a simple nomadic shepherd. He promptly
intimated this alarming news to Indian Armed
Forces which led to the ultimate failure of the
nefarious Pakistani designs.

120 |
 Nagaland's Women
Entry in the Guinness Book of
World Records Konyak Naga Tribe

O n the 5th April, 2019, a record number of 4687 Naga ladies in their traditional attire performed their ethnic dance
in Som village of Nagaland. This wonderful gesture performed to highlight rich Naga tribal heritage has been
recorded as a unique feat finding entry in the Guinness Book of World Records. It makes one to conclude that
these so- called unlettered tribals are far ahead of urban masses in preserving and celebrating our resplendent heritage.
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