In a moment of pride for the state of Tripura and India’s vibrant tribal heritage, Ms. Smriti Rekha Chakma has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri for her remarkable contributions to the field of Art, particularly in preserving and promoting traditional Chakma textile weaving.
Hailing from the Unakoti district of Tripura, Ms. Chakma has dedicated her life to the ancient craft of loin-loom weaving, using eco-friendly, vegetable-dyed threads passed down through generations. Her artistry, rooted deeply in cultural tradition, showcases indigenous designs and sustainable methods that have gained national and international appreciation.
For over four decades, she has empowered countless tribal women through her organization “Ujeia Jadha”, established in 1999 to train and uplift rural artisans. Her mission of cultural preservation is coupled with sustainability, as she handcrafts natural dyes using locally available roots, herbs, and plants.
Receiving the Padma Shri, Ms. Chakma expressed her gratitude, stating: “This honor belongs to my community and all the women who continue to weave our stories into fabric. I will keep working to ensure our heritage thrives.”
The award recognizes her dual impact—preserving traditional Chakma weaving and fostering economic independence for rural women. Tripura’s government and cultural bodies have lauded her achievements, noting that her recognition sets a benchmark for tribal art across the Northeast.
Ms. Smriti Rekha Chakma’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride—an enduring inspiration to India’s artisan community.
