Mizoram's Young Singing Sensation Honored with Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte Receives Prestigious Award

Aizawl, Dec 27: Nine-year-old Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte, a remarkable singing talent from Mizoram, was awarded the Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India's highest civilian honor for children, during a ceremony held in New Delhi on Friday.

This year, Esther was one of the 20 children chosen from across the nation to receive this prestigious recognition.

The award ceremony coincided with Veer Bal Diwas, where President Droupadi Murmu honored young achievers from various fields with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar.

Esther's award was a tribute to her extraordinary musical abilities, especially her heartfelt performance of 'Vande Mataram' at just four years old, which earned her acclaim nationwide, including commendations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and renowned composer AR Rahman.

Born on June 9, 2016, Esther first captured public attention in 2020 when her cover of AR Rahman's 'Maa Tujhe Salaam' went viral on social media.

Living in Lunglei, she is the youngest of three siblings, with her father Lalrinenga Hnamte working as a taxi driver and her mother R Lalawmpui being a retired soprano from a local church choir. Esther is celebrated for her quick grasp of melodies and lyrics, having started her singing journey at a tender age.

Throughout her young career, she has received numerous accolades, including a special appreciation award from the Governor of Mizoram, the title of 'Amul Girl', and the Young Achievers Award from Dalmia Cement Bharat Limited in 2021, making her the youngest recipient of that honor. Additionally, she is the youngest member of the Mizo Zaimi Inzawmkhawm.