Manoj Istwal (Dehradun): Renowned folk singer and cultural exponent of Uttarakhand, Hema Negi Karasi, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Adani Presents Amazing India Award’ for her contribution to folk music, traditional art and the preservation of Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage.
The recognition is being seen as an important achievement not only for Karasi but also for the traditional folk culture of Uttarakhand. Through her distinctive voice, performances and dedication to folk music, she has played an important role in taking the cultural traditions of the Himalayan state to audiences across India and abroad.
Hema Negi Karasi has remained actively associated with the promotion and preservation of Uttarakhand’s traditional music and folk traditions. Her work has also focused on connecting younger generations with their cultural roots at a time when traditional forms of music and art face increasing challenges in the modern era.
The latest honour adds to her recognition in the field of art and culture. She has previously been nominated for prestigious honours, including the Teelu Rauteli Award and the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar, in recognition of her artistic contribution and work in the field of traditional music.
Expressing her gratitude after receiving the award, Karasi said that the honour belonged not only to her but to the entire folk culture of Uttarakhand and the artists working to preserve its traditions.
“This award is not just mine. It is a recognition of the entire folk culture of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, our traditional musical instruments and all those artists who are working tirelessly to preserve our cultural heritage,” she said.
Alongside her musical career, Hema Negi Karasi has also been working for cultural preservation through the HNK Cultural Service Trust. Through the organisation, she is providing free training in traditional musical instruments to members of the younger generation. The initiative aims to encourage young people to learn traditional art forms and help ensure that Uttarakhand’s musical heritage continues to be passed on to future generations.
Her efforts have made her a familiar name among followers of Uttarakhandi folk music and culture. Her performances and cultural initiatives have contributed to bringing traditional songs and musical forms to wider audiences while retaining their connection with the region’s cultural identity.
The conferment of the Adani Presents Amazing India Award has generated a wave of appreciation in Uttarakhand’s artistic and cultural circles. Artists, admirers and well-wishers have congratulated Karasi on the recognition and acknowledged her continued efforts towards promoting the state’s folk traditions.
The award also highlights the growing visibility of Uttarakhand’s traditional music and artists on wider platforms. For the state’s cultural community, Karasi’s achievement represents another moment of recognition for the diverse folk traditions, music and artistic heritage of the Himalayan region.
