Today, on the occasion of the 98th birth anniversary of the renowned tie-and-dye (Bandha) artist, master craftsman, and revered art guru Padma Shri Kunj Bihari Meher, a memorial tribute was organized at the Kalabharati Trust premises in Barpali. Members of the institutions “Kalabharati Trust Museum,” “Kalabhavan,” and “Kalashree,” founded by him, paid floral tribute to his bust and observed the day with deep reverence.

On this occasion, senior member of the Trust and distinguished film actor Shri Ashok Kumar Das lit the ceremonial lamp and offered a floral wreath at the bust of Padma Shri Meher. His son, internationally acclaimed Bandha artist Dr. Surendra Meher, fondly remembered and shared the contributions of his father to the field of Bandha art. The Trust’s secretary, Professor Uttar Kumar Gartia, also highlighted Padma Shri Meher’s immense contribution to this traditional art form.

In the concluding session, the vote of thanks was delivered by senior Trust member and eminent music director Shri Birendra Nath Nag.

The ceremony was attended by institution members including Shri Hari Charan Khatua, national award–winning terracotta artist Shri Manbodh Rana, Shri Gadadhar Singh, Shri Mahendra Kumar Meher, Shri Sudam Meher, Professor Ramakant Tripathi, Shri Nava Kishore Meher, Shri Tanmayananda Meher, Shri Ashok Khatua, Shri Bant Ram Seth, and lady members—Smt. Shanti Lata Meher, Pushpanjali Meher, Reena Meher, Pushpanjali Meher (Baby)—along with all other members who offered their tributes and helped in the smooth conduct of the programme.