Assam Government Honors Cultural Icons with Prestigious Awards

The Assam government has recognized four distinguished individuals for their significant contributions to culture and social service. The awards, including the Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Award and the Ajan Peer Award, will be presented during the Bishnu Rabha Divas celebration on June 20. Notable recipients include Vaishnavite guru Manik Borbayan and artist Madhursudhon Das, alongside Samsuddin Ahmed and Gita Upadhyay. This recognition highlights the importance of preserving Assam's rich cultural heritage and promoting social harmony through the arts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 17, 2026, 17:38 IST

Recognition of Cultural Contributions

File image of Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati (Photo: Meta)

Guwahati, June 17: The Assam government has honored four distinguished individuals from the realms of culture, arts, and social service, acknowledging their vital roles in safeguarding and promoting the state's diverse cultural and social heritage.

The Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Award 2024 has been awarded to renowned Vaishnavite guru Manik Borbayan in the dance category, alongside artist Madhursudhon Das, who has been recognized in the fine arts category.

Samsuddin Ahmed is the recipient of the Ajan Peer Award 2025, while Gita Upadhyay will be honored with the Sati Sadhani Award 2026.

During an announcement on Wednesday, Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Bora stated that the awards will be presented as part of the state's celebration of Bishnu Rabha Divas on June 20.

"These awards are traditionally presented during Silpi Diwas and Rabha Diwas. With the entire state celebrating Bishnu Rabha Divas on June 20, the government will host a special event to officially present the awards," Bora explained.

The Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Award, named after the legendary cultural figure Bishnu Prasad Rabha, stands as one of the highest cultural accolades in Assam, honoring remarkable contributions in dance and fine arts.

Borbayan has been recognized for his dedication to the Vaishnavite dance tradition, while Das, an alumnus of the Government College of Art and Craft in Guwahati, has been acknowledged for his achievements in fine arts.

The Ajan Peer Award 2025 is a national honor awarded biennially to individuals who have significantly contributed to communal harmony, national integration, and cultural development.

"Ahmed, a regular performer with All India Radio, has been acknowledged for his efforts in fostering social harmony through cultural initiatives and the arts," Bora added.

Additionally, Gita Upadhyay, who has previously received the Padma Shri and the Sahitya Akademi Award, will be honored with the Sati Sadhani Award 2026, which is awarded every three years for exceptional contributions to social causes, literature, art, and culture.

"Upadhyay has already been recognized by the Centre with the Padma Shri and the Sahitya Akademi Award," Bora highlighted.