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Padma Shri Honors Silent Heroes: Prof Roy's Journey from Farmer's Son to National Award

Social worker and chemistry professor Mahendra Nath Roy expressed profound happiness at being named a Padma Shri recipient under the 'Unsung and Unique Heroes' category for 2026. He described the award as the greatest reward for a lifetime of quiet, dedicated service to society, overcoming financial and personal hardships. Roy is among 11 personalities from West Bengal honored this year, including the late theatre icon Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay, who receives the award posthumously. The announcement has evoked pride and emotional responses, particularly in Mukhopadhyay's hometown of Balurghat.

Key Points: Padma Shri 2026: Mahendra Nath Roy on Recognition of Silent Service

  • Prof Roy is a farmer's son & chemistry professor
  • He is founding VC of Alipurduar University
  • Award recognizes 45 'Unsung and Unique Heroes'
  • 11 awardees are from West Bengal this year
  • Late theatre icon Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay honored posthumously
3 min read

'Recognition of silent service biggest reward': Padma Shri recipient Mahendra Nath Roy (Ld)

Chemistry professor Mahendra Nath Roy, among 45 'Unsung Heroes' awarded Padma Shri 2026, says national recognition is his life's greatest reward.

"That the nation and the government have acknowledged this silent effort is the greatest reward of my life. - Mahendra Nath Roy"

Kolkata, Jan 25

Emotions ran high as social worker and noted chemistry professor Mahendra Nath Roy was announced as one of the recipients of the Padma Shri under the Padma Awards 2026, recognising him as an "Unsung and Unique Hero".

In his first reaction after the announcement, Roy told IANS: "I am very happy to have received this award. I thank my parents as well as my teachers for this. I am a son of a farmer. I never imagined that I would receive such a prestigious recognition. I have only continued my work quietly. That the nation and the government have acknowledged this silent effort is the greatest reward of my life."

Roy is a professor of chemistry and former Dean of the Faculties of Sciences and Arts, Commerce and Law at North Bengal University. He is also the founding Vice-Chancellor of Alipurduar University in north Bengal.

Commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's decision to honour 45 "Unsung and Unique Heroes" under the Padma Awards 2026, Prof Roy said: "This is not just a personal honour. It is recognition for thousands of people who work silently for society without seeking the limelight. This initiative truly brings real heroes to the forefront."

Reflecting on the challenges in his life, he said: "There were many struggles, including financial difficulties, social barriers and personal hardships. But the desire to see smiles on people's faces always gave me the strength to move forward and work diligently."

Roy is among 11 personalities from West Bengal, cutting across various fields, who have been honoured with Padma Shri awards this year.

The others are Asok Kumar Haldar (Literature and Education), Gambir Singh Yonzone (Literature and Education), Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay (Art, posthumous), Jyotish Debnath (Art), Kumar Bose (Art), Prosenjit Chatterjee (Art), Rabilal Tudu (Literature and Education), Saroj Mandal (Medicine), Tarun Bhattacharya (Art) and Tripti Mukherjee (Art).

Meanwhile, the announcement of the Padma Shri award for late theatre personality Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay has evoked emotional responses across Balurghat in South Dinajpur district.

Mukhopadhyay was a prominent figure in theatre not only in Balurghat but across north-eastern India. Several of his plays, including Devanshi, in which he starred and which he directed, received wide appreciation across the country.

He passed away in March last year. The Government of India has decided to honour him posthumously with the Padma Shri this year.

Local residents expressed pride and emotion following the announcement. His son, Krishnandu Mukhopadhyay, said he was informed about the honour through a call from the Ministry of Human Resource Development.

"The entire family is extremely proud and happy with this recognition," he said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally, the Padma awards are going to real grassroots workers and not just film stars or industrialists. Prof. Roy and the late Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay truly deserve this. It's a good move by the government to highlight unsung heroes.
S
Sarah B
As an academic myself, I find Prof. Roy's journey incredibly motivating. Balancing a high-level academic career with social work is no small feat. His story is a testament to the power of education in India.
A
Aman W
While I appreciate the recognition, I hope the process remains transparent and truly merit-based across all states. Sometimes it feels like certain regions or fields get more focus. Still, congratulations to all the awardees from Bengal!
K
Kavitha C
Emotional to read about the posthumous award for Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay sir. His contribution to theatre in North Bengal is immense. This recognition will inspire so many young artists. A fitting tribute.
D
David E
It's fascinating to see a chemistry professor being honored for social work. Shows that one's profession doesn't limit their capacity to serve society. A great lesson in multidisciplinary contribution.

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