Haldhar Nag: All you need to know about Padma Shri awardee from Odisha

New Delhi, Mar 31: Haldhar Nag, a Kosli poet from Odisha has been awarded India's third highest civilian honour Padma Shri.

Nag known as 'Lok Kabi Ratna' in Odisha has penned several poetries on nature, society, mythology and religion other than taking up the cause of the oppressed.

Here are some interesting facts you need to know about the Padma Shri recipient from Odisha

• Born in Bargarh district of Odisha in 1950, Haldhar Nag, known as Lok Kabi Ratan is a school dropout.

• The 66-year-old poet has penned several poems and 20 epics.

• He was awarded PadmaShri for his contribution towards literature and education.

• Haldhar Granthabali-2, a compilation of his writings, is set to be a part of the Sambalpur University's syllabus.

• Nag does not wear any footwear and always dons a white dhoti and a vest.

• He is also a recipient of Odisha Living Legend Award.

• The BBC made a documentary film about his life and works.

• He started writing poems in the Kosali language in 1990. His first poem 'Dhodo Bargachh' was published in a local magazine.

• Nag worked as a dishwasher at a local sweet shop and later a cook.