In the fast-paced world of influencers, where every other person aspires to make their living via travelling and writing, there have been pioneers who once paved the way through all possible hardships. And one such trailblazer duo has been just bestowed with the prestigious Padm Shri award.
Meet two of India's oldest and most celebrated travel writers — the late Hugh Gantzer and Colleen Gantzer, a couple hailing from Uttarakhand. Also famously known as ‘OG Travel Bloggers’, the couple collectively has over 30 books and 3,000 articles and columns on their travel adventures and exploration of the country's culture and history, with a legacy spanning over 50 years.
The Gantzers discovered from India's hidden gems to historically- and traditionally-significant places. And wrote about the rich landscapes and promoted tourism through their meticulously researched works.
Colleen, who passed away in November 2024, received the honour posthumously.
Also sharing the spotlight during this year's award ceremony on Republic Day was the 91-year-old social activist Radha Bahan from Almora. And she has been honoured with the Padm Shri for being a steadfast guardian of Uttarakhand’s natural and cultural heritage.
With a life devoted to empowering women and conserving the environment, Radha Bahan's journey began in 1957 with the Bhoodan Movement. Inspired by Sarla Behan, she championed causes like forest conservation, Gram Swaraj and opposition to mining and hydropower projects, to name a few noble undertakings.
