President confers Padma Shri to Jorden Lepcha

GANGTOK,: Sikkim’s master craftsman Jorden Lepcha was honoured with Padma Shri award for his lifelong dedication to preservation and promotion of indigenous bamboo crafts.

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Shri to Jorden Lepcha in the field of art from Sikkim during the Civil Investiture Ceremony in New Delhi on Thursday, a PIB release informs.

The 52-year-old Padma Shri awardee hails from Dzongu and was introduced to the art of bamboo crafting by his parents.

Driven by a deep passion to revive ancient traditions, Jorden immersed himself in mastering the intricate techniques of crafting Lepcha hats, known as Thyaktuks. The pivotal moment came in 1997 when he participated in a six- month training program for traditional hat weaving organized by the Government of Sikkim's Industry department. Despite facing challenges in selling his creations initially, he persevered, taking on additional jobs to support his family while honing his craft.

In 2005, Jorden Lepcha began sharing his knowledge and skills by conducting training sessions for aspiring artisans in Gangtok, summoned by the Directorate of Handicrafts & Handlooms, Government of Sikkim. His commitment extended to offering free training sessions at his own residence, empowering individuals to embrace and propagate the ancient craft of Lepcha hat weaving.

“Shri Lepcha’s legacy goes beyond individual accomplishments; it's about the impact one person can have in preserving and perpetuating cultural traditions. Through his efforts, he has not only safeguarded a cherished cultural heritage but also empowered countless individuals to embrace their heritage and sustain themselves through craftsmanship,” states the PIB release.

Through dedication and hard work, Lepcha’s expertise gained recognition, earning him accolades such as a Certificate of Merit from the Ministry of Textile and the esteemed title of Master Craftsman for the State of Sikkim. But beyond personal achievements, his journey has always been about giving back to his community and preserving their cultural legacy, the PIB release mentions.

CM congratulates Jorden

Chief Minister PS Golay has extended his congratulations and best wishes to Jorden Lepcha for being conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award for his diligent efforts in preserving the cultural heritage of the Lepcha tribe through weaving traditional hats and crafting bamboo for the past 25 years.

“This recognition is truly a testament to his dedication and contribution. It is indeed a very proud moment for Sikkim, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and talent within the region,” shared the Chief Minister.