Hally War: The Guardian of Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges and His Padma Shri Journey
In the lush, rain-soaked hills of Meghalaya, where rivers rush through dense forests and steep valleys make modern infrastructure difficult, a remarkable tradition of living architecture has flourished for centuries. At the heart of this extraordinary story is Hally War, a 69-year-old farmer from Siej village in the East Khasi Hills, who has dedicated more than half a century to growing and preserving living root bridges — a unique form of bio-engineered bridge made from the aerial roots of trees. His work has earned him one of India’s highest civilian honours — the Padma Shri Award 2026 — recognizing not just his individual contributions but also the cultural and ecological heritage he represents.
The Tradition of Living Root Bridges
Meghalaya’s living root bridges, locally called jingkieng jri, are natural structures created by guiding the aerial roots of the rubber fig tree (Ficus elastica) across rivers and streams. Over decades, these roots are trained, intertwined, and nurtured until they form strong, flexible bridges that can last for hundreds of years. These bridges are far more than scenic attractions — they are functional, sustainable solutions adapted to an environment that receives some of the highest annual rainfall on Earth.
The Khasi community, to which Hally War belongs, has developed this subtle art over many generations. Where conventional bridges made of wood or metal might deteriorate quickly under constant monsoon torrents, these living bridges strengthen with time as the trees continue to grow. Some bridges span more than 50 metres, support dozens of people at once, and are estimated to endure for up to 500 years with proper care.
Early Life and Inspiration
Hally War’s journey began in his childhood. Growing up in Siej, he listened to his grandfather’s stories about the mythical Jingkieng Ksier, a legendary “golden bridge” that connected heaven and earth. These tales were more than folklore; they embodied the deep reverence for nature that defines the Khasi worldview. Around the age of ten, War witnessed a living root bridge being formed and was immediately captivated by the process — one that combined patience, ecological harmony, and ancestral ingenuity.
Unlike most children who might dream of quick results or swift achievements, War embraced a long view of life’s work. While others in his village sought opportunities in urban settings, he remained rooted in Siej, committing himself to mastering and advancing the ancient practice. Over the next 50 years, he dedicated countless hours to guiding the roots of ficus trees, helping them span rivers and ravines and connecting remote communities that otherwise would remain isolated.
A Lifelong Commitment to Sustainability and Heritage
Creating a living root bridge is not a task completed in days, months, or even a few years — it is a multi-decadal project. It often takes between 15 and 30 years for a bridge to mature into a fully functional structure. This means that generations plant the seeds, nurture the roots, and entrust the work to successors who will one day see the bridge reach its full potential. In a world that prizes rapid innovation, War’s life’s work is a testament to patience, foresight, and harmony with nature.
But War’s contribution goes beyond his personal craft. As a custodian of indigenous knowledge, he has mentored younger generations, taught local families the techniques of weaving and nurturing root bridges, and fostered a sense of environmental stewardship that aligns cultural legacy with ecological conservation. His work has helped elevate the living root bridges from a regional practice to a globally admired model of sustainable architecture.
Recognition and National Honour
On January 25, 2026, the Government of India announced that Hally War would be conferred the Padma Shri, one of the nation’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to social work and environmental conservation. This honour was not just a celebration of War’s individual achievements but also a beacon highlighting the cultural richness and environmental wisdom of the Khasi people.
His accolade was widely acknowledged across the Northeast and beyond. Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, described War as a “true ambassador of our heritage and traditions,” underlining how his work symbolizes the deep connection between humanity and nature in the region.
In his own words, War expressed humility and gratitude, emphasizing that the award belongs not just to him but to his village and forebears who passed down the wisdom of living in harmony with nature.
Cultural and Ecological Impact
Hally War’s story also resonates with broader movements for cultural preservation and sustainable tourism. The living root bridges have garnered international interest, with proposals underway to include them on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, recognizing them as outstanding examples of human interaction with the natural environment.
Tourism to the East Khasi Hills and specifically to bridges like Umkar has grown, contributing to local economies while inviting visitors to appreciate the intricate, patient work embedded in these natural structures. This convergence of tradition, ecology, and tourism showcases how indigenous practices can inform modern approaches to sustainability and infrastructure.
A Legacy for Future Generations
The legacy of Hally War is multifaceted. It preserves an ancestral craft, supports ecological resilience, and fosters community bonds that transcend modern technological solutions. In a world grappling with environmental degradation and cultural homogenization, his life’s work stands as a powerful reminder: the wisdom of the past can guide the innovations of the future.
War’s Padma Shri recognition is not just a personal achievement — it is a national acknowledgment of the value of traditional knowledge, sustainable living, and human-nature harmony. His story inspires not only those in Meghalaya but communities worldwide to respect, sustain, and celebrate indigenous practices that offer answers to some of our most pressing ecological and cultural challenges.
Comments are closed.