The Inspiring Journey of Mizoram's Young Singing Sensation Esther Hnamte
A Remarkable Beginning
Aizawl, Jan 9: Before her melodious voice captivated audiences nationwide, Esther Hnamte, a child prodigy from Mizoram, faced a life-altering decision even before her birth.
During her pregnancy, doctors advised her mother, R Lalawmpuii, to terminate the pregnancy due to health concerns, as she had already undergone multiple caesarean sections and had a young child at home. The recommendation, though practical, weighed heavily on her.
“I was on the verge of following the doctor's advice,” Lalawmpuii recounted. “I had even procured the necessary medications for the procedure.”
However, a moment of clarity struck her. “I realized there was already a life within me,” she reflected. “Why should I end it?”
Choosing to trust in a higher power, Lalawmpuii decided to carry the pregnancy to term, disregarding the risks. When she returned to the doctor three months later, an ultrasound revealed a healthy baby.
“Looking back, I understand that God intended for Esther to be born,” she stated.
A Rising Star
Esther was born on June 9, 2016, and has since emerged as one of Mizoram's most cherished young talents. Her achievements reached a new height on December 26, when she was awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 in the Art and Culture category. Shortly after, on January 5, she performed at the prestigious Antilia in Mumbai, the residence of industrialist Mukesh Ambani, marking a significant milestone for a singer from the North East.
Those who know her believe that Esther was destined for music. Her mother recalls that she began singing almost immediately after birth.
“She had a remarkably high-pitched voice,” Lalawmpuii shared. “Her cries were so loud that they silenced all the other babies in the ward. The nurses predicted she would become a great singer.”
Music is a family legacy; Esther's grandfather was a church choir conductor, and her mother was a soprano.
Esther spoke her first words at just one year old and began singing before she turned two, showcasing an extraordinary talent for memorizing lyrics.
“By the age of three, she could recall the lyrics to numerous songs,” her mother noted. “When neighbors encouraged her to perform with a guitar for a homemade video, she sang flawlessly. She even created music videos before she turned three.”
Gaining National Attention
Esther's breakthrough came in 2020 when her cover of 'Maa Tujhe Salaam' went viral, resonating with audiences both in India and abroad. Her emotional delivery belied her young age, earning her the title of Mizoram's singing sensation, despite not knowing Hindi when she first memorized the song.
Following her performance at the Ambani residence, speculation arose regarding her earnings, which her parents swiftly dismissed.
“We will receive some compensation,” Lalawmpuii explained, “but we won’t disclose the amount, even to Esther.”
She emphasized that Esther remains unaware of any financial gains from her performances. “We avoid discussing money or fame around her. I want her to enjoy a normal childhood, free from the pressures of celebrity life.”
A Simple Life Amidst Fame
Despite her newfound fame, Esther leads a humble life. She is currently in Class II at a school run by the Assam Rifles in Lunglei, which also supported her music video for 'Jana Gana Mana'.
“Sometimes, Esther has to travel for performances,” her mother mentioned. “During those times, the school arranges special exams for her, and I am truly grateful for their support.”
From a near-termination of her pregnancy to a voice that now echoes beyond the hills of Mizoram, Esther Hnamte's journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and an extraordinary destiny.