Kalimpong horticulturist honored with Kew Guild Medal

GANGTOK, : Udai Chandra Pradhan, a renowned horticulturist and conservationist, from Kalimpong has been awarded the prestigious Kew Guild Medal by The Kew Guild, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The award ceremony took place on September 6 at Kew Gardens in the United Kingdom, a press release informs.

Founded in 1893, the Kew Guild is one of the world’s most respected institutions and the Kew Guild Medal is conferred for outstanding contributions in scientific horticulture, plant conservation, and research—fields in which Pradhan has dedicated his entire career.

“We are deeply honored by this recognition from such a distinguished institution,” said Hemlata Pradhan, herself a distinguished botanical illustrator. “This award reflects a lifetime of dedication to the study, documentation, and conservation of plant life, particularly the rich flora of the Himalayas.”

Udai Chandra Pradhan’s career began with academic excellence, having earned a Gold Medal from the Allahabad Agricultural Institute. He further advanced his expertise through specialized studies in orchids at Kew and in Europe. Over the years, he has authored several landmark publications, including Indian Orchidaceae (Vol. 1 and 2), Himalayan Jewel Orchids; 100 Beautiful Himalayan Orchids and How to Grow Them, Flora of Singalila Mountains, Rhododendrons of Sikkim Himalayas (a hand-colored limited edition displayed at RBGE, Kew), and Himalayan Arisaema. His most recent work, Indian Orchid Hybrids – A Personal Journey, continues to serve as an invaluable resource for researchers and plant enthusiasts.

A pioneer in orchid conservation, Pradhan’s work as a breeder and researcher, along with his involvement in organizations such as the Orchid Society of India and the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), has left a lasting impact on global horticulture. He has also held key leadership roles including past president of the Rotary Club of Kalimpong and Past Chair/Member of the Indian Sub-Continent Regional Orchid Specialist Group (ISROSG).

His contributions have been recognized with numerous awards including the Noel Day Memorial Gold Medal for Academic Excellence (1972), the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Orchid Society of India (2006), and the International Scientist of the Year 2002 for Orchidology and Orchid Conservation.

This award is a tribute not only to Pradhan’s personal achievements but to his lifelong commitment to preserving natural heritage and inspiring future generations of plant lovers. His work exemplifies how passion, when combined with purpose and perseverance, can create meaningful change, the release mentions.