"Would like give credit for this to my parents": Kantha stitch artist and Padma Shri awardee Tripti Mukherjee
Birbhum, January 25
Kantha Stitch Artist Tripti Mukherjee, who will be conferred with the Padma Shri in the field of art, expressed happiness over the honour and said she had been waiting for this recognition for many years. She credited her parents for her achievement and said she learned the art of hand embroidery from her mother, from whom she continues to draw inspiration.
Speaking about her journey, Mukherjee said she has been practising the craft for over 40 years and has trained at least 20,000 women across Birbhum district. She added that she remains actively involved in her work to this day.
"I am very happy because I have been waiting for this for many years... I would like to give the credit for this to my parents... I learned this hand embroidery from my mother, and I have been learning it from her ever since. Have been doing this since last 40 years. I taught this skill to at least 20,000 women throughout my entire Birbhum district. I am still working," Mukherjee told ANI.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the Padma awardees, asserting that their excellence, dedication and service across diverse fields enrich the fabric of the society.
"Congratulations to all the Padma Awardees for their outstanding contributions to our nation. Their excellence, dedication and service across diverse fields enrich the fabric of our society. The honour reflects the spirit of commitment and excellence that continues to inspire generations," PM Modi wrote on 'X'.
The Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian honours of India, are announced every year on the eve of Republic Day. The Awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service; Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of higher order and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field of activity.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally, recognition for our artisans! Padma Shri is well-deserved. We need more awards for people working at the grassroots level, not just celebrities. Her work empowers women and keeps our culture alive. Jai Hind!
As someone who appreciates textile arts, this is fantastic. Kantha embroidery is beautiful. Training 20,000 people over 40 years shows incredible dedication. Congratulations to Tripti Mukherjee!
This is the real "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" in action! She didn't just learn, she taught thousands of others. We need to support local artisans more. Government should ensure they get proper market access for their products.
While I'm happy for her award, I sometimes feel these recognitions come very late in life for many artists. We should identify and honour such talent earlier so they can inspire more people during their prime working years.
My grandmother used to do Kantha work in Bengal. It's a dying art. So proud that someone is keeping it alive and even teaching it to thousands! 👏 Her humility in thanking her parents is touching.
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