Shillong, June 3: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), through its Environment Cell under the Central Executive Council (CEC), on Wednesday accorded a special felicitation to Padma Shri awardee Hally War at his residence in Siej village under Nongkhroh Sirdarship.
The delegation was led by Assistant Environment Secretary of the KSU CEC, Shelkitbok Kharbani, along with South Khasi Hills District Unit General Secretary Mesadap L. Skhembill and members of the Sohra Circle.
The felicitation was organised following the conferment of the Padma Shri 2026 on Hally War by the Government of India in recognition of his contribution to the preservation and development of the renowned Umkar Living Root Bridge, one of Meghalaya’s unique ecological and cultural heritage structures.
During an interaction with KSU members, Hally War shared that he began caring for the living root bridge when he was just 10 years old and has continued the work for nearly seven decades.
He explained that the original purpose of maintaining and nurturing the bridge was not to attract tourists but to ensure safe passage for villagers travelling to and from agricultural fields. In earlier days, people relied mainly on temporary bamboo and wooden bridges, making the living root bridge an essential means of connectivity.
War said he never imagined that the bridge would one day become a major tourist attraction. Over the years, however, it has evolved into an important source of livelihood not only for his family but also for the surrounding community, especially after visits by Central and State government leaders helped bring national attention to the site.
Addressing the younger generation, the Padma Shri awardee urged Khasi youth to cherish, preserve and carry forward the rich heritage passed down by their ancestors. He also encouraged them to approach every task, whether big or small, with dedication, sincerity and hard work.
He stressed that success comes through perseverance and commitment, adding that those who work with passion and determination will eventually reap the rewards of their efforts.
The KSU lauded Hally War’s lifelong dedication to environmental conservation and indigenous knowledge systems, describing his achievement as a source of pride and inspiration for the Khasi community and the people of Meghalaya.
