On the occasion of India’s 77th Republic Day, the names of the Padma Shri recipients, one of the country’s most prestigious civilian awards, were announced on Sunday. This time, 45 people, who have been described as ‘unsung heroes’ or hidden heroes, are being conferred with this award for their significant contributions in various fields of society.
Among the Padma Shri nominees this year is a former bus conductor who has built the world’s largest open-air library. There is a pediatrician who has set up Asia’s first human milk bank, increasing the chances of newborns surviving. There is also a 90-year-old artist who plays an endangered tribal instrument and keeps the legacy of folk culture alive.
According to the Indian news agency Press Trust of India (PTI), Anke Gowda, a resident of Haralahalli village in Mysore district of Karnataka, once worked as a bus conductor. He is currently 75 years old. Now he is known as the founder of the world’s largest open (free-access) library. The ‘Pustak Mane’ library he built has more than two million books and rare manuscripts in 20 languages. He is receiving the Padma Shri in recognition of this initiative to make knowledge open to everyone.
Mumbai-based pediatrician Armida Fernandes, who is on the list, played a significant role in saving the lives of countless newborns by establishing Asia’s first human milk bank.
The Padma Shri was conferred on 90-year-old tribal tarpa player Vikhlia Ladkia Dhinda from Maharashtra for preserving the tradition of this rare musical instrument made of gourd and bamboo.
The Padma Shri is India’s fourth highest civilian award. It is followed by the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and the highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.
