Hally War, a lifelong guardian of Meghalaya’s iconic living root bridges, has been awarded the Padma Shri for his decades of dedication to preserving this unique indigenous tradition. War began guiding the aerial roots of rubber fig trees as a child in his village of Siej, learning the ancient practice from his grandfather. What started as playful curiosity gradually became a lifelong commitment to conservation.
Over the years, War has helped nurture and strengthen several living root bridges—natural structures that can last up to 600 years and withstand Meghalaya’s heavy monsoons. Beyond maintaining the bridges, he has also mentored younger villagers, emphasising the importance of protecting the surrounding ecosystem and traditional knowledge.
The living root bridges, known locally as Jingkieng Jri, are a symbol of sustainable engineering and cultural heritage, drawing global attention. India has nominated the cultural landscape for UNESCO World Heritage status, with evaluation expected in 2026–27. War says the Padma Shri belongs not just to him, but to his entire community and ancestors who taught the value of living in harmony with nature.
