Shillong, Jan 25: Hally War, from Siej village near Sohra, has been named as one of 45 recipients of the Padma Shri by the central government on the eve of Republic Day.
War has been awarded the prestigious honour for his lifelong dedication to crafting and preserving Meghalaya’s iconic living root bridges.
The award comes under the category of social service. Some of the 44 other recipients include a former bus conductor who set up the world’s largest free-access library, a paediatrician who formed Asia’s first human milk bank and a 90-year old rare musical instrument player.
When the news came in of his award, War and his family were in Kongthong. He reportedly heard about getting the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, from Doordarshan.
Congratulating War on the award through a post on social media, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said today, “Heartiest congratulations to Bah Hally War of Siej village, East Khasi Hills, on being conferred the Padma Award 2026. For decades, he has dedicated his life to nurturing and building living root bridges, becoming a true ambassador of our heritage, traditions, and sustainable living.” The CM shared photos of meeting War and said, “I fondly recall meeting Bah Hally in Siej during my trek to the living root bridges, where I learned that he began weaving these remarkable structures at the age of just ten. His profound knowledge, deep respect for nature, and unwavering community spirit make him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious honour. Congratulations, Bah Hally!” (with PTI inputs)
