Aizawl: Mizoram’s child prodigy Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte was on Friday conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for her musical excellence and cultural contribution.
The 9-year-old singing sensation received the prestigious award from President Droupadi Murmu in a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
Popularly known as Esther Hnamte, the honour places the young singer among the country’s most distinguished child achievers.
Hnamte, who hails from Lunglei town in south Mizoram, began singing at the age of three, initially performing in churches and local functions. Her exceptional talent soon found a wider audience, drawing admiration well beyond the state.
Hnamte’s parents expressed happiness and gratitude, thanking God as well as everyone who supported and inspired their daughter in achieving national recognition.
“Although we have a very humble beginning, God’s kindness and help are marvellous. Not only us (parents) but there are many people who helped and contributed to Hnamte’s successful story since she began her singing career at 3,” Hnamte’s mother R. Lalawmpui said.
“It is a historic as well as a surprising moment for us as there are many young talents who deserve the award more than our daughter,” she added.
In a post on X, Mizoram Governor Vijay Kumar Singh said, “It is a moment of immense pride for Mizoram and the nation. Wishing you a continued success and a bright future ahead.”
He said the child prodigy truly embodies national pride and cultural harmony, making her a shining inspiration for Viksit Bharat.”Her soulful renditions of ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’, ‘Vande Mataram’, and several other patriotic songs have touched millions of hearts across the nation, inspiring deep feelings of patriotism and beautifully celebrating India’s unity in diversity. At such a tender age, Esther Hnamte tru ly embodies national pride and cultural harmony, making her a shining inspiration for Viksit Bharat,” Singh said.
Hnamte shot to national prominence in October 2020 after a video of her singing AR Rahman’s “Vande Mataram” went viral, following shares by former Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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In August 2021, she released a video rendition of the national anthem “Jana Gana Mana” on YouTube, featuring the Assam Rifles, which sponsored the project. The video crossed three million views within a week and has since amassed over 56 million views.
In December last year, she performed “Vande Mataram” at the inaugural ceremony of Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav 2024 in the presence of Modi, who praised her performance.
