Why Did Mitrabhanu Gountia Got The Padma Shri in 2020?

Mitrabhanu Gountia’s Path to the 2020 Padma Shri Award: A Journey of Cultural Preservation

The Padma Shri, India’s esteemed civilian honor, celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions to various fields. In 2020, Mitrabhanu Gountia, a name synonymous with cultural preservation, was conferred with the Padma Shri award.

Tracing Mitrabhanu Gountia’s Journey

Born in the culturally rich state of Odisha, Mitrabhanu Gountia’s early life was steeped in tradition and art. His exposure to the vibrant folk traditions of the region ignited a lifelong passion for preserving and promoting India’s diverse cultural heritage. Gountia’s journey took him from being an ardent learner to a revered custodian of cultural traditions.

The Reason behind Mitrabhanu Gountia’s Padma Shri Award

1.Cultural Revival and Preservation:

Gountia’s relentless efforts to revive and preserve Odisha’s fading folk art forms played a pivotal role in his Padma Shri recognition. His dedication to the documentation, research, and dissemination of traditional art forms safeguarded them from the brink of extinction.

2. Promotion of Tribal Art:

Gountia’s commitment extended to tribal communities, where he empowered artists and artisans to create a sustainable livelihood through their traditional skills. His initiatives facilitated economic growth while maintaining the authenticity of tribal art forms.

3. Educational Initiatives:

One of Gountia’s notable contributions was his emphasis on imparting knowledge to the younger generation. His workshops, seminars, and training programs ensured the transfer of traditional knowledge to future custodians of the culture.

4. Global Outreach:
Gountia’s work transcended borders, as he represented India’s cultural heritage on international platforms. His efforts contributed to fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of India’s artistic legacy.

Important Points of Achievement

1. Reviving Pattachitra Art:

Gountia’s efforts in reviving the ancient art of Pattachitra, a traditional cloth-based painting, breathed new life into this intricate art form. His workshops and training centers empowered artists to continue this legacy.

2. Creating Livelihoods:
Through initiatives like “Sabala” and “Ghumura,” Gountia provided sustainable income opportunities to rural and tribal communities, reducing their dependency on alternative livelihoods.

3. Cultural Documentation:

Gountia’s documentation of folk art, music, dance, and rituals served as an invaluable resource for researchers, scholars, and future generations interested in understanding India’s diverse heritage.

4. Awards and Recognitions:

Before the Padma Shri, Gountia received numerous awards for his exceptional contributions, reaffirming the impact of his work on cultural preservation.

Mitrabhanu Gountia’s journey to receiving the Padma Shri in 2020 is a testament to his dedication to cultural preservation and revival. His efforts have not only safeguarded traditional art forms from oblivion but also empowered communities and artists. Gountia’s recognition emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage as a means of bridging the gap between the past and the future. His story is an inspiration for those who seek to safeguard and promote the rich cultural tapestry that defines India’s identity.