Dehradun: In recognition of their extraordinary contributions, 91-year-old Radha Bahan Bhatt and the late Hugh Gantzer and Colin Gantzer (travel blogger couple) of Uttarakhand are set to receive the prestigious Padma Shri awards.
President Draupadi Murmu announced the recipients of the Padma Awards on the eve of Republic Day, celebrating the invaluable work of these distinguished individuals in the fields of literature and education-journalism.
Radha Bahan dedicated her life to the upliftment of girls
Radha Bahan Bhatt’s journey of social service began at the tender age of 18. Born on October 16, 1933, in Dhurka village, Almora district, to Kamalapati and Revati Bhatt, Radha Bahan left her home in her youth and moved to Kausani. It was here that she dedicated her life to the upliftment of girls and the betterment of society. Her journey of social service started in 1957 with the Bhoodan movement, and she has since been actively involved in various initiatives, including girls’ education, environmental protection, water and forest conservation, Gram Swaraj, and women’s empowerment.
She opposed hydro power projects while surveying the Himalayas and rivers
Radha Bahan was deeply influenced by Sarla Behan, a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi, and followed in her footsteps. In 1975, on Sarla Behan’s 75th birthday, Radha Bhabhi embarked on a 75-day padayatra (foot march) to raise awareness about forest conservation, the Chipko movement, opposition to alcohol, and the establishment of Gram Swaraj. In 1976, she undertook another padayatra of 65 villages in Devidhura Block, inspiring kindergartens, women organizations, and agricultural initiatives. Her activism continued in 1980 with a strong voice against mining, and from 2006 to 2010, she opposed hydro power projects while surveying the Himalayas and rivers of the state.
Radha Bahan remains actively involved in social service
Despite her age, Radha Bahan remains actively involved in social service. She is currently associated with Kausani’s Laxmi Ashram and continues her mission to serve society. In a recent telephonic conversation, Radha Bhabhi shared that she had been in Baroda, Gujarat, and is now in Sevagram, Wardha, Maharashtra, but plans to return to Kausani soon.
Hugh and Colin Gantzer’s significant contribution to Indian travel journalism
The husband-and-wife duo, Hugh and Colin Gantzer, have been recognized for their significant contribution to Indian travel journalism over the past five decades. They have authored over 30 books about Indian tourism, promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Their work has not only boosted tourism but also created awareness about the preservation of local communities and cultural heritage. Colin Gantzer passed away in November 2024, and he will receive the Padma Shri award posthumously, alongside his wife Hugh.
