These Rath Shilpis were honoured for their dedication and unmatched skill in building the grand Chariots by Guruji Srimad Budha Bapa today at Bhubaneswar in presence of President of Lalit Kala Akademi Padma Vibhushan Dr. Raghunath Mohapatra and President of JSPL Foundation Smt. Shallu Jindal. The Samman was presented in collaboration with Dr. Raghunath Mohapatra Art & Craft Foundation, which supported in selection of the artisans and craftsmen. Each awardees given a financial support of Rs. 10000/-.
Introducing the award, Smt. Shallu Jindal says, “Within a very short span of time these artisans and craftsmen make grand chariots for the Lord’s car festival. Their age old skill is unique in nature and they certainly deserve appreciation. Conferring the second Swayamsiddh Samman to them is an attempt by JSPL Foundation to recognise and encourage their service to the Lord. I am only an instrument to carry out the wishes of Lord Jagannath”. She also informed that JSPL Foundation is actively considering financial support for social security of senior artisans who have dedicated their life to the cause.
Honouring the Rath Shilpis is first of its kind in Odisha. They have been selected on the basis of their seniority and years of service for the dev
Dr. Raghunath Mohapatra, in his address appreciated the efforts of JSPL Foundation and its president Smt. Shallu Jindal for her noble gesture in honouring the Rath Shilpis.
Appreciating this effort of Mrs. Shallu Jindal, the Rath Shilpis also presented an artistically made idol of Chaturdhamurti to her.
It is to be noted that every year these Rath Shilpis build the chariots ‘The Taladhawaja, The Darpa Dalana & The Nandighosha’ with immaculate craftsmanship and artistry. These three grand chariots are also constructed within very short span of times, in about two months, from Akshaya Tritiya to Sri Gundicha. The Chariots are itself massive pieces of art, adorned with numerous designs & patterns.
Swayamsiddh Samman has been instituted by JSPL Foundation to recognise and reward grassroots action leaders at individual levels. Last year this Samman was presented to 20 individuals and 9 self-help groups from different districts of Odisha, for their exemplary courage, commitment and confidence that has enabled them to overcome adversities and create a unique identity of their own, making them a source of inspiration for others. At national level 25 individuals and organisations from different corners of India were given the Rastriya Swayamsiddh Samman, based on selection by a national jury.