In a proud recognition of North-East India’s vibrant cultural heritage, the Government of India has conferred the prestigious Padma Shri on Ms. Silbi Passah from Meghalaya for her remarkable contributions to the field of Art.
Ms. Passah is celebrated for her tireless work in preserving and promoting the traditional art, music, and cultural practices of the Khasi community. A passionate cultural ambassador, she has spent decades reviving indigenous art forms and sharing Meghalaya’s rich folklore and craftsmanship with wider audiences, both in India and abroad.
Through her performances, teaching, and cultural documentation, Ms. Passah has played a pivotal role in keeping endangered artistic traditions alive. Her work has empowered local artisans, nurtured young talent, and strengthened cultural pride among the tribal communities of Meghalaya.
Reacting to the honour, she said, “This award is a tribute to the spirit of my people, their songs, stories, and the living culture that shapes our identity.”
Artists, scholars, and cultural bodies across the North-East have welcomed the recognition, calling Ms. Passah a “torchbearer of tribal arts and an inspiration to future generations.”
The conferment of the Padma Shri on Ms. Silbi Passah is a national salute to her dedication in safeguarding India’s artistic diversity and cultural legacy.
