Tripura artisan Ranjit Das from East Nalchar in Sepahijala district has brought immense pride to the state by winning the prestigious President’s Award for his exceptional bamboo basket craftsmanship. He received the honour from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, on Tuesday, where he was felicitated alongside other national awardees.
The ceremony marked the conferment of the National Handicrafts Awards for 2023 and 2024, an event that celebrates India’s finest artisans and underscores the Government’s efforts to safeguard and promote the country’s rich handicraft heritage. This year, 12 master artisans were presented with the Shilp Guru Awards, while 36 craftsmen received the National Awards.
Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh, senior officials, and other dignitaries graced the occasion, highlighting its national significance.
Speaking to reporter, Ranjit Das expressed deep gratitude and shared that his journey began in childhood, learning bamboo craft from his father. Over the years, he has mastered the intricate art and turned it into both a livelihood and a mission. Apart from producing bamboo items with his family, he also serves as a trainer, nurturing young talent and ensuring the continuation of traditional skills. His wife, Phul Kumari, said the recognition was a result of years of dedication, calling it a proud moment for their family.
The honour has been widely celebrated in Tripura, reinforcing the state’s identity as a centre of bamboo craftsmanship. Ranjit’s achievement is expected to inspire many young artisans to take up handicrafts as a sustainable career option and contribute to the preservation of indigenous art forms.
His success stands as a tribute to the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness of Tripura’s artisan community.
