New Delhi, June 23, 2026: The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri Awards for the year 2026 at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. The prestigious ceremony was attended by the Vice President of India, the Prime Minister, the Union Minister for Home Affairs, and several other distinguished dignitaries.
Among the distinguished awardees, the Santali community celebrated a historic moment as Shri Charan Hembram and Late Shri Rabilal Tudu were conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to Santali language, literature, education and culture.
Padma Shri for Shri Charan Hembram
Shri Charan Hembram, a distinguished Santali (Ol Chiki) educationist and cultural activist from Mayurbhanj, Odisha, received the Padma Shri for his lifelong dedication to the promotion and institutionalisation of the Santali language. Over several decades, he played a transformative role in expanding Ol Chiki education across Odisha, facilitating the establishment and affiliation of 1,973 Ol Itun Asras, promoting teacher training, and strengthening educational infrastructure. He is also an accomplished author, composer, dramatist and founder of several educational and cultural institutions that have nurtured generations of Santali learners and artists.
Posthumous Honour for Shri Rabilal Tudu
In a deeply emotional moment, the Padma Shri was conferred posthumously on eminent Santali writer Shri Rabilal Tudu. The honour was graciously received on behalf of the late literary icon by his wife, Mrs. Heeramani Tudu, from the hands of the President of India.
Shri Rabilal Tudu, one of the most respected voices in Santali literature, was renowned for his pioneering contribution to Santali drama and language preservation. His acclaimed play Parsi Khatir, which highlights the contemporary challenges facing the Santali language, earned him the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2015. He was also honoured with the Banga Bhushan Award by the Government of West Bengal in 2022. Throughout his life, he worked tirelessly to enrich Santali literature through drama, radio plays and literary initiatives, leaving behind an enduring legacy for future generations. He passed away on 4 June 2026.
A Proud Moment for the Santali Community
The recognition of Shri Charan Hembram and Late Shri Rabilal Tudu with the Padma Shri marks a proud milestone for the Santali community and serves as national recognition of the invaluable contribution of Santali scholars, writers and cultural leaders. Their achievements reaffirm the importance of preserving India’s indigenous languages and cultural heritage while inspiring future generations to carry forward the rich legacy of Santali literature, education and tradition.
