Tripura artist Santa Deb received the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi National Award from President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi on October 21, 2026. The recognition celebrates her contribution to visual arts and brings national attention to Tripura’s artistic talent.
Tripura’s art community has earned national recognition as acclaimed artist Santa Deb received the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi National Award, one of India’s prominent honours in the field of visual arts. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi on October 21, 2026, during a ceremony organised as part of the 65th National Exhibition of Art.
Santa Deb’s achievement has brought renewed attention to Tripura’s artistic talent and its contribution to India’s cultural landscape. Her recognition is being welcomed as a significant milestone for the state’s art fraternity, highlighting the importance of sustained creativity, artistic dedication and contributions to visual expression.
The award ceremony also recognised recipients of the Grand Prize and Honourable Mentions at the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026. The event celebrated artistic excellence and innovation in contemporary Indian art, bringing together distinguished artists and representatives of the country’s cultural sector.
Following the announcement, congratulations poured in from Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, Leader of the Opposition and members of the cultural and media communities. The recognition has been described by art enthusiasts as a proud moment for the state, reflecting the achievements of individuals whose work brings wider attention to Tripura.
Observers from the cultural sector have also emphasised that such achievements deserve broader public recognition. They said celebrating artists who receive national honours can encourage emerging talent and strengthen appreciation for the state’s diverse creative traditions. Santa Deb’s award has been viewed as a collective achievement that transcends social, ethnic and community identities.
During the ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the important role of art in reflecting a society’s culture, history, experiences and aspirations. She described artistic expression as an essential component of India’s rich cultural heritage and stressed the need to create more opportunities for artists to develop their skills and reach wider audiences.
The President also underlined the importance of supporting artists through technology, modern training opportunities, financial assistance and improved access to markets and art collectors. Such measures, she indicated, could help artists sustain their creative work while making their contributions more widely accessible.
Murmu further called for efforts to bring art closer to the public by expanding its presence in educational institutions and public spaces. She stressed the importance of encouraging emerging artists and providing platforms where new ideas and creative approaches can flourish.
The recognition of Santa Deb is expected to inspire aspiring artists in Tripura and draw greater attention to the state’s contribution to the visual arts. Art enthusiasts believe that celebrating achievements of this kind can help create a stronger environment for artistic development, cultural exchange and creative innovation.
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Tripura has a diverse cultural heritage shaped by its communities, traditions and artistic practices. National recognition for artists from the state offers an opportunity to highlight this diversity and encourage greater engagement with its creative community.
Santa Deb’s receipt of the Lalit Kala Akademi National Award marks an important moment for Tripura’s art fraternity. The honour not only recognises her artistic accomplishment but also reinforces the value of supporting creativity, preserving cultural heritage and providing opportunities for artists to contribute to India’s evolving visual arts landscape.
