BARDHAMAN (West Bengal, India): Rabilal Tudu, who has been selected for the Padma Shri award for 2026, is widely regarded as one of the leading voices in Santali literature. Hailing from the Santhal community of West Bengal, his life and work are deeply rooted in the language, culture, and storytelling traditions of his people.
Born in Nowara village in Bardhaman district, Tudu’s introduction to literature came not through formal academic study but through immersion in the oral stories, songs and dramas of the Santhal community. He gradually developed a passion for writing plays and literary works in Santhali, turning this interest into a lifelong pursuit.
Over the decades, Tudu’s writings have evolved into a distinctive expression of Santhal social and cultural life, exploring themes of community, tradition, identity, and resilience. Known for his powerful storytelling and dramatic sense, he has preserved narratives and cultural motifs that are rarely documented, keeping them alive through literature and theatre.
Despite being in the banking profession and facing the challenges of limited literary platforms for tribal languages, he continued to write and produce plays, contributing significantly to the growth and recognition of Santali literature. His commitment has played a key role in sustaining Santhal language drama and literary traditions at a time when many indigenous languages face decline.
In later years, Tudu’s work gained wider recognition, including the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2015, which brought Santali literature to national attention. Scholars and enthusiasts regard him not merely as a writer but as a cultural custodian. For younger generations of Santhal writers, he represents continuity, resilience, and pride in indigenous literary traditions.
While the Padma Shri has brought national attention to his contributions, Rabilal Tudu’s true legacy lies in the stories, plays, and cultural knowledge he has carried across generations, a reminder that India’s literary richness is sustained not only by institutions, but by individuals who dedicate their lives to preserving it.
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