Honouring her lifelong dedication to the preservation and promotion of India’s traditional arts, the Government of India has conferred the Padma Shri on Ms. Urmila Srivastava from Uttar Pradesh for her remarkable contribution to the field of Art.
A master of traditional folk and mural painting, Ms. Srivastava has been instrumental in keeping alive the rich artistic heritage of Awadhi and rural North Indian art forms. With intricate brushwork, vivid storytelling, and deep cultural symbolism, her work has brought national and international attention to art styles that were once at risk of fading away.
Her murals and paintings have adorned cultural institutions, exhibitions, and public spaces, reflecting themes rooted in mythology, rural life, and women’s narratives. Through her art, Ms. Srivastava has not only celebrated India’s cultural diversity but also empowered local artisans, particularly women, by training and mentoring them.
“This award is a tribute to the vibrant traditions of our villages,” said Ms. Srivastava. “Art is not just expression — it’s identity, history, and legacy.”
In addition to her work as an artist, she has played a significant role in reviving traditional painting in educational settings, curating workshops and collaborating with schools and NGOs to promote art education among underprivileged children.
Cultural bodies and artists across the country have hailed the recognition, calling it a timely acknowledgment of a woman who has bridged the gap between ancient tradition and contemporary relevance.
By awarding the Padma Shri to Ms. Urmila Srivastava, India honours a custodian of cultural heritage whose brush continues to breathe life into the nation’s artistic soul.
