Odisha’s Nila Madhab Panda and Kosli poet Haldhar Nag to get Padma Shri

BHUBANESWAR: Renowned filmmaker Nila Madhab Panda and Koshali poet Haladhar Nag from Odisha have been selected for Padma Shri Award-2016.

‘I am Kalam’ fame Panda has been chosen for the Padma award in the Art-Film Direction and Production category. The Sonepur born internationally acclaimed filmmaker has produced and directed over 70 movies, documentaries and short films. The 42-year-old’s movies are based on social and developmental issues.

These films are based on important social issues such as climate change, child labour, education, water issues, sanitation and many other developmental issues in India. His films have won him several awards and critical acclaim.

His first iconic feature film, the highly acclaimed ‘I am Kalam’, has won 32 International awards, one national award. Amongst the most prestigious, he won Viewers’ Choice award at IFFLA, People’s Choice Award at the Montreal, Best Feature Film and best director award in California, Most Prestigious “The Don Quixote Prize” of the ICCF at Germany, Best film at Frankfurt and Bronze Cairo , The Prize of the International Center of Films For Children & Young People, Best film from the Indian Panorama by the Young Jury at the IFFI, Goa, Best Debut Director Aravindam Purashkaram, and many more.

On the other hand, Nag will be honoured with the prestigious award for his contribution to Literature and Education.

The 66-year-old poet has carved a niche for himself in the literary field. Impressed by his poetry, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) had filmed a documentary on his life and works.

Till he entered into his 40’s, he wrote Lokgeet, Samparda and Krushnaguru, which are the roots of the Koshali literature. Later, he started writing poetry in Koshali language.

Haldar Nag’s major works include Lokgeet, Samparda, Krushnaguru, Mahasati Urmila, Tara Mandodari, Achhia, Bacchhar, Siri Somalai, Veer Sundar Sai, Karamsani, Rasia Kavi (biography of Tulasidas), Prem Paechan.