Guwahati: The 83rd birth anniversary of noted Ramayani scholar, celebrated writer and Jnanpith awardee Dr Indira (Mamoni Raisom) Goswami was observed on Friday at the Kumar Bhaskar Natya Mandir in Uzan Bazar.
The event was organised by the South East Asia Ramayan Research Centre, which was established by Dr Goswami during her lifetime.
Lieutenant General (retd) Rana Pratap Kalita attended the event as the chief guest, and former Tezpur University professor Dr Pradip Jyoti Mahanta was present as the guest of honour. Several distinguished personalities were also in attendance.
Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Kalita said that whenever inequality emerges in society, whenever women struggle for their rights, and whenever intolerance threatens freedom of expression, the writings of Mamoni Raisom Goswami remind people of empathy.
“Mamoni Baideo showed everyone that literature is not only about the beauty of language but also the beauty of truth,” Lt Gen Kalita said.
The former GOC-in-C of the Eastern Command said had Mamoni Baideo been alive, she would have spoken against the injustices witnessed today. He said she would have reminded society that empathy is essential for civilisation to progress and equality is vital for peace.
Lt Gen Kalita said her pen often became a weapon as she wrote fearlessly for society and urged all to carry forward her legacy.
Guest of honour Dr Mahanta said Mamoni Raisom Goswami dedicated her entire life to the pursuit of creation, which for her was a form of worship.
Reflecting on her timeless novels and deep understanding of Ramayani literature, he said the message of peace and liberation within the Ramayani tradition may have inspired her, and she later explored that inspiration through her works.
Dr. Mahanta said her novels portrayed people and society and celebrated life and humanity through pain and the dream of freedom.
He noted that the theme of women’s liberation also appears in her works, even though she never identified herself as a feminist writer.
Dr Mahanta suggested that the South East Asia Ramayan Research Centre organise a two or three day discussion on her life and contributions.
The programme began with a mangalcharan by artiste Barnali Das, followed by lighting of the lamp before her portrait.
A minute of silence was observed in memory of singer Zubeen Garg. Centre director Sabita Sharma delivered the welcome address and recalled key moments from the writer’s life.
Members of her family presented a group song, followed by a dance performance by artiste Namrata Goswami.
Actor Zerifa Wahid recited two poems written by Dr Goswami . Sukanaya Kashyap Mahanta anchored the event, and Centre president Jyotirmoy Goswami offered the vote of thanks.
