Juhar Samman is the highest honorary recognition presented annually by Juhar Parivar Bangalore during its flagship event - Nuakhai Bhetghat. This prestigious award celebrates individuals for their lifetime contribution and exceptional impact in their respective fields, broadly categorized into:
Each recipient is carefully selected by the core committee of Juhar Parivar after a detailed evaluation of their lifelong achievements and service toward community upliftment, culture, and social harmony. The Juhar Samman stands as a symbol of deep respect, pride, and gratitude from the community.
Shri Prabhudatta Pradhan, was a legendary music composer best known for creating the timeless Sambalpuri anthem “Rangabati”. A master of rhythm and folk composition,he joined All India Radio in 1969 and went on to shape the modern Sambalpuri sound. His contribution helped bring Western Odisha’s music to national recognition. Honoured with multiple awards during his lifetime, Shri Pradhan's legacy continues to inspire generations of folk artists.
Rambai Das, a resilient female farmer from Jamurda village in Bargarh, Odisha, was honored in 2017 for her extraordinary journey and community impact. Orphaned by circumstances, she overcame early hardships—losing her husband and elder daughter—and singlehandedly built a successful farming enterprise on leased land. Despite limited education, she cultivated vegetables and reinvested her earnings to buy and operate farming equipment, earning the respect of her community and inspiring many local women . Her recognition with the Nilimarani Social Service Award highlights her strength, economic empowerment, and enduring service to society.
Abinash Padhan, is a talented filmmaker, writer, and director from Odisha, best known for documentaries that bring inspiring local stories to life. His acclaimed works include Mun Odisha, the “Water Boy” short focusing on water scarcity that screened at Sylhet Film Festival, and Lighting Their Dreams, showcased at Netty Wood and Nigeria's In-short Film Festival . A self-taught visual storyteller, he also directed the 2017 documentary Sambalpuri Weavers, highlighting the resilience of traditional artisans . Awarded the Juhar Samman in 2018, Abinash’s work continues to elevate Odisha’s cultural narratives and bring social issues into focus through powerful cinema.
Lilima Minz, a formidable midfielder from Sundargarh, Odisha, was honoured in 2019 for her outstanding contributions to Indian hockey and her relentless dedication to sport. Making her senior international debut in 2011, Lilima went on to earn over 150 caps, including representing India at the 2016 Rio Olympics and achieving bronze at the 2014 and silver at the 2018 Asian Games . Trained at Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela, she has been a consistent force in midfield, named among the best by Hockey India and Odisha state sports bodies alike . Lilima’s dedication and excellence have inspired countless young athletes, making her a true icon of community impact through sport.
Gandhi Barik, a masterful Vataren (folk drama) performer from Western Odisha, was honored with the Juhar Samman in 2023 for his exceptional dedication to preserving and showcasing tribal narratives through traditional theatre. Over the decades, his captivating performances—rich in expressive storytelling and rhythmic body movements—have kept the Vataren art form vibrant on festivals and cultural stages across Odisha. Juhar Parivar recognized his lifetime contribution at their Nuakhai Bhetghat celebration, celebrating his role in reviving and promoting Odisha’s indigenous performing legacy.
Dr. Byomakesh Dikshit, a renowned cardiologist from Bhubaneswar, was honoured with the Juhar Samman in 2024 for his extraordinary service to humanity. Beyond his professional excellence in cardiac care, he is deeply admired for his selfless acts—offering free treatment to hundreds of underprivileged patients and often paying their hospital bills from his own salary. His unwavering commitment to serving the poor and saving lives has made him not only a respected doctor but a true symbol of compassion and community care.
