Padma Shri 2026: Assam’s Nuruddin Ahmed and Pokhila Lekthepi Honoured for Contributions to Arts and Folk Music
In a proud moment for Assam and the Northeast, two distinguished artists from the state have been selected for the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2026. Renowned sculptor and art director Nuruddin Ahmed and celebrated Karbi folk vocalist Pokhila Lekthepi will receive this high civilian honour from President Draupadi Murmu on Republic Day, recognizing their exceptional contributions to visual arts, theatre, and traditional music.
The Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian recognitions, is conferred annually to celebrate distinguished service in diverse fields including arts, literature, education, and social work. This year’s announcement highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Assam, bringing national spotlight to the region’s artistic excellence and indigenous traditions.
Nuruddin Ahmed: Master Sculptor and Stagecraft Pioneer
Nuruddin Ahmed, hailing from Sathikuchi village in Nalbari district, Assam, has been a transformative figure in the state’s art and theatre scene for decades. Born on January 17, 1958, he honed his skills through training at institutions like J.J. College of Arts and has since become synonymous with innovative sculpture and stage design.
Ahmed’s body of work includes large-scale sculptures, architectural installations, and creative direction for major cultural events. He has designed iconic arches and setups for Assam Sahitya Sabha sessions across the state for over 30 years, earning widespread acclaim for his craftsmanship. His excellence in allied theatre arts and stagecraft previously earned him the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, establishing him as a leading voice in preserving and evolving Assam’s performing arts heritage.
Through his sculptures and designs inspired by local motifs, mythology, and contemporary themes, Nuruddin Ahmed has bridged traditional Assamese aesthetics with modern expression, inspiring generations of artists and contributing significantly to cultural infrastructure in the region.
Pokhila Lekthepi: Guardian of Karbi Folk Music Legacy
Pokhila Lekthepi, a legendary figure in Karbi folk music from Karbi Anglong, Assam, has devoted more than four decades to preserving and popularizing the soulful melodies of her community. With over 300 songs to her credit, her powerful, emotive voice has carried traditional Karbi folk tunes far beyond Assam’s borders, making them accessible to wider audiences.
Lekthepi’s unwavering commitment to indigenous music has kept ancient Karbi oral traditions alive amid modernization. Her performances and recordings have played a key role in cultural revival efforts, earning her admiration from music lovers and earlier honours such as state-level awards and recognitions like the Asom Gaurav Award and Prag Prerona Award.
By rendering folk songs with authenticity and passion, Pokhila Lekthepi has ensured that Karbi musical heritage continues to resonate with younger generations, fostering pride in tribal identity and contributing to India’s diverse musical mosaic.
Significance for Assam and the Northeast
The conferment of Padma Shri on Nuruddin Ahmed and Pokhila Lekthepi in 2026 underscores the central government’s appreciation for talent from the northeastern states. Assam’s vibrant cultural ecosystem — blending indigenous tribal arts, classical influences, and contemporary creativity — has consistently produced award-worthy personalities.
This recognition not only celebrates individual excellence but also promotes national unity through cultural diversity. It serves as inspiration for emerging artists in Assam and motivates continued efforts to document, preserve, and innovate within traditional art forms.
Republic Day Presentation and Broader Context
President Draupadi Murmu will formally present the awards during the Republic Day celebrations, a tradition that adds prestige and visibility to the honourees. The Padma Awards are announced on the eve of Republic Day and include Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri categories.
For Assam, these honours add to a growing list of national recognitions for its sons and daughters in arts and culture. They highlight how local traditions contribute to India’s global cultural narrative.
As the state celebrates this achievement, residents of Tezpur and across Assam express immense pride. These awards affirm that dedication to art and heritage, no matter the region, finds due recognition at the highest levels.
Congratulations to Nuruddin Ahmed and Pokhila Lekthepi — true ambassadors of Assam’s artistic soul!
