Asom Ratna: Assam Celebrates Its Award and Recipients

Every land has a story, a soul that is nurtured by its rivers, its hills, and most importantly, its people. In the beautiful state of Assam, this soul finds its voice in the remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to its culture, art, and society. To honour these shining stars, the state has a very special way of saying "thank you" – an award that is truly the pride of Assam. It's called the Asom Ratna, and it’s much more than just a trophy; it’s an embrace from the motherland.

Understanding the Heart of Asom Ratna

Instituted in 2009 by the Government of Assam, the Asom Ratna is the highest civilian honour the state can bestow upon its children. The word "Ratna" itself means "gem" or "jewel," and that's precisely what this award celebrates – the precious gems of Assam whose contributions have left a deep, lasting mark on the state’s identity. It's a recognition of a lifetime of work in fields like literature, art, social service, and science.

This prestigious honour isn't just about a single achievement. It acknowledges a journey of passion and dedication. The selection process looks for individuals whose work has enriched Assamese culture and inspired its people. The award carries with it a cash prize of ₹3 lakh, a special plaque, and a traditional shawl (angavastra), but its true value lies in the immense respect and gratitude it represents.

The Luminaries Who Wore the Crown: Honoring the Legends

The list of Asom Ratna recipients reads like a who's who of Assam's modern history. These are the people whose names are whispered with reverence in households across the state. Let's take a moment to remember a few of these incredible souls:

• Dr. Bhupen Hazarika (2009): The very first recipient, and deservedly so. How can one even talk about Assam without humming a tune by the legendary Bhupen Da? His voice wasn't just music; it was the voice of the Brahmaputra, the cry of the common man, and the anthem of love and unity. He took Assamese music to the world and became an icon of Indian culture.
• Dr. Mamoni Raisom Goswami (2012): A literary powerhouse, Mamoni Baideo, as she was fondly known, was a voice for the voiceless. Her powerful writings explored the depths of human suffering and societal issues with incredible courage. Her work with women's literary organisations, like the one celebrated in the Sadou Asom Lekhika Samaroh Samiti's legacy, has inspired countless women to pick up the pen.
• Dr. Jitendra Nath Goswami (2015): From the soil of Assam to the surface of the moon! Known as the "Moon Man of India," this brilliant scientist was the Principal Scientist of India's first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1. He proved to every child in Assam that no dream is too big, and no star is too far.

More Than an Award – A Beacon of Inspiration

You might wonder what makes the Asom Ratna so incredibly prestigious. It’s because this award, presented by the state government, holds up a mirror to society, showing us the very best of who we are and what we can achieve. It tells the younger generation that a life dedicated to art, science, or service is a life worth living. It reinforces the idea that our roots and our culture are our greatest strengths.

While the Asom Ratna is the highest honour, Assam has a rich tradition of celebrating its artists and thinkers through other prestigious platforms, such as the Assam Sahitya Sabha awards. These recognitions ensure that the flame of creativity and service never dies out. They build on the legacies of great figures like Bhabendra Nath Saikia, whose contributions continue to shape Assamese arts and literature.

Keeping Assam's Legacy Alive with Bhaktilipi

Just as the Asom Ratna honours the jewels of Assam, we at Bhaktilipi are deeply committed to preserving and sharing the timeless stories and cultural treasures of India. We believe that the wisdom of luminaries like Dr. Bhupen Hazarika and Dr. Mamoni Raisom Goswami deserves to be cherished and passed on.

If you feel a connection to these stories of heritage and devotion, we invite you to explore our world. At Bhaktilipi.in, you’ll find a space that honours our traditions in a way that feels right for today. Come, be a part of our community.

A Legacy That Continues to Shine

The Asom Ratna is not a conclusion; it is a milestone in a continuous journey of excellence. Each recipient becomes a guiding star, inspiring countless others to follow their path with passion and integrity. It stands as a powerful reminder that the true wealth of a state lies in its people – its brilliant, dedicated, and inspiring 'Ratnas'.

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