Five eminent Odia persons in Padma Shri Awards 2018 list

Five eminent Odia persons have been selected to get Padma Shri Awards 2018, the highest civilian award of the country, which was announced in New Delhi on Thursday.

They are Odisha-born film director Sisir Mishra, Chandra Sekhar Rath (Literature and Education), Gobardhan Panika (Art-Weaving), Bhabani Charan Pattanaik (Public Affairs) and Prabhakara Maharana (Sculpture).

The Union Government has announced Padma Awards for 85 individuals, which includes 3 Padma Vibhushan, 9 Padma Bhushan and 73 Padma Shri. Over 15,700 applications were received for this year’s awards, the ministry of home affairs said.

Known as Dronacharya of Ollywood, Sisir Mishra has directed several films like Sindur Bindu, Suna Sansar, Subarna Sita and others. Hindi films like Bheegi Palkein, Samay Ki Dhara, Aseema, TADA and several others are his creation. He has carved out a special place in Indian Film and has been acclaimed as his Innovative Directional Capabilities.

Chandrasekhar Rath, who bagged this award for literature and education, is a popular writer and has written many best sellers in Odia language.

“It was a big surprise for me. I had never expected that I will get Padma Shri award. I have learnt the traditional weaving from my grandfather and my father and I am happy that many youngsters are learning this craft and promoting it across the globe,” said Gobardhan panika.

Nanogeneranian freedom fighter Bhabani Charan Patnaik expressed his happiness over getting Padma award and said, “Did not expect to get this award at the dawn of my life. Will continue service for the poor and downtrodden till mu lasy breath.”

Sculptor Prabhakar Maharana, who is famous for his exquisite work in stone and a Rastrapati awardee said, “I have received several awards in my life but Padma Award is something special. This is the biggest recognition of my artistic talent gifted by the God. After the award I feel more encouraged to continue my good work.”

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