Guwahati, 12 June (HS): Assam Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya honoured India's eminent classical dancer Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh with the Srimanta Sankardev Award 2023 at a special function organised at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati on Thursday as a grand celebration of art, culture and spiritual heritage. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and many dignitaries were present on the occasion.

In his address, the Governor paid tribute to Srimanta Sankardev and described him as a symbol of India's cultural unity, harmony and inclusiveness. He said, Shankardev was not only a saint of Assam or the Northeast, but was a symbol of India's collective cultural consciousness.

Referring to ‘Ek Sharana Naam Dharma’ propagated by Sankardev, the Governor said that his contributions—such as Borgeet, Ankia Naat and translation of Bhagavata Maha Purana—promoted social equality and broke caste discrimination. He termed Sankardev’s role in shaping Assam’s cultural identity as invaluable.

Governor Acharya lauded the efforts of the Assam government such as establishment of Batadrava Than, Patwausi Satra, Sankardev Kalakshetra and Srimanta Sankardev Peetha in various educational institutions.

Felicitating Dr. Sonal Mansingh, the Governor said that the award not only honours her personality but also recognises her dedication in preserving and presenting Indian heritage in a modern context. “Her Nritya Sadhana, cultural consciousness and social service are inspiring,” he said.

Dr. Mansingh, who is an expert in Bharatanatyam and Odissi dance, has been engaged in preserving and propagating Indian tradition for decades.

Culture Minister Bimal Bora, Chief Secretary Dr Ravi Kota, renowned dancer Padma Bhushan Jatin Goswami and many other dignitaries were present at the event.

The Governor finally called upon the youth to take inspiration from the life and teachings of Srimanta Sankardeva and carry forward the eternal values of India through research, expression and service. ---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash