Northeast Desk, 13th May: President Droupadi Murmu extended a warm welcome to Jordan Lepcha, a celebrated figure from Sikkim recently bestowed with the Padma Shri award, during a ceremony held in Rangpo.
Jordan Lepcha’s Padma Shri recognition comes as a testament to his remarkable bamboo craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Lepcha community. Through his dedication, he has not only preserved traditional arts but also inspired a resurgence of interest in the rich cultural legacy of the Lepcha tribe.
Renowned as a master craftsman, Lepcha specializes in crafting bamboo hats adorned with depictions of historical narratives and cherished family values. The Lepcha tribe, indigenous to Sikkim, comprises approximately 50,000 individuals and has maintained its cultural distinctiveness over centuries of relative isolation.
Central to Lepcha’s efforts is the preservation of the traditional Lepcha hat, known as Sumok Thyaktuk, meticulously crafted from bamboo and cane over a month-long process. Comprising four layers, each layer holds symbolic significance, encapsulating elements of Lepcha heritage and identity.
In a bid to revive the fading art of Sumok Thyaktuk, Lepcha has taken on the role of a mentor, imparting his knowledge to over 150 youngsters from various regions of Sikkim. His endeavors serve as a beacon of cultural revival, ensuring that the legacy of Sumok Thyaktuk endures for generations to come.
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