Guwahati News Desk: Seven litterateurs from Assam bagged Sahitya Akademi awards in different genres. The Sahitya Akademi announced the awards today. Noted journalist-writer Anuradha Sarma Pujari bagged Sahitya Akademi award for her Assamese novel ‘Iyat Ekhon Aranya Asil’, Mwdai Gahai for his Bodo poetry collection ‘Khoro Sayao Arw Himalaya’ and Chhabilal Upadhayaya got it for his Nepali epic poetry ‘Usha-Anirudha’.
In the Yuva Puraskar category, Abhijit Bora got the award for his Assamese short story collection ‘Deuka Kobai Jai’ and Gautam Daimary for his Bodo poetry collection ‘Jiu Gwnang Soho’. In the Bal Sahitya Puraskar category, Mrinal Chandra Kalita got the award for his Assamese novel ‘Bokul Phular Dare’ and Ratneswar Narzary for his Bodo folk tales ‘Dikhura Solobatha’.
Talking to the media, noted journalist-writer Anuradha Sarma Pujari said, “Writers don’t write for awards. They write for their mental satisfaction. I hope more journalists will evolve as writers. Many journalists created good literature in the world.”
Mrinal Saikia said, “This is a blessing for me. It will inspire me in my literary works.” Abhijit Bora said, “I am elated. This award will inspire me in my literary works.”
Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi congratulated Anuradha Sarma Pujari, Mwdai Gahai and others for bringing the Sahitya Akademi Award 2021 to the state. The Governor said that their achievements have once again proved the state’s mettle on literature. He said that their endeavour made the people of Assam proud.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that seven writers brought laurels. “Their achievement will inspire others in intellectual pursuits. It will inspire young writers to work with fresh vigour,” he said.