Honoured by Indian–Norwegian Information and Cultural Forum,

Norway

Global Recognition for Outstanding Contributions to

Literature, Journalism, Education and International Promotion of Hindi

Prayagraj, August 03 (HS): Prof. Kumud Sharma,

Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya (MGAHV),

Wardha, has been conferred the prestigious International Premchand Award–2026

in recognition of her distinguished and multifaceted contributions to

literature, journalism, education, and the global promotion of the Hindi

language. The honour was presented by the Indian–Norwegian Information and

Cultural Forum, Norway, during a special event held to commemorate the birth

anniversary of the legendary Hindi novelist Munshi Premchand.

The International Premchand Award is presented to eminent

personalities who have made exceptional contributions to the promotion of the

Hindi language, Indian literature, and India's cultural heritage at the global

level. Prof. Kumud Sharma has played a significant role in enhancing the

international stature of Hindi through her sustained work in education,

literary scholarship, journalism, and cultural discourse.

Under her visionary leadership, Mahatma Gandhi

Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya has launched several pioneering

initiatives in the areas of Indian Knowledge Systems, Hindi language promotion,

translation studies, research, academic publishing, and international academic

collaboration. These initiatives have earned widespread appreciation from

scholars and institutions in India and abroad, strengthening the University's

global academic engagement.

The Indian–Norwegian Information and Cultural Forum is a

distinguished international cultural organization dedicated to fostering

dialogue and cooperation between India, Norway, and other countries. The Forum

actively promotes Indian languages, literature, art, and culture on the global

stage while serving as a bridge for cultural exchange among nations.

Established in 1988 in Oslo, Norway, with the support of

Indian and Norwegian writers and the Embassy of India, the Forum has

consistently worked to advance literature, culture, education, and

international dialogue. The International Premchand Award is regarded as one of

its most prestigious international honours, recognizing individuals who have

made remarkable contributions to the global dissemination of Indian literary

and cultural values.

The announcement of Prof. Kumud Sharma's honour was received

with immense pride and enthusiasm across the Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya

Hindi Vishwavidyalaya campus. Faculty members, officers, staff, researchers,

and students hailed the recognition as a matter of great pride not only for the

University but also for the entire Hindi-speaking world.

The award also reflects the growing global influence of the

Hindi language and underscores the increasing international appreciation of

Indian languages, literature, and cultural traditions. It reaffirms Hindi's

expanding presence on the world stage and recognizes the invaluable

contribution of scholars such as Prof. Kumud Sharma in advancing India's

linguistic and cultural heritage across international boundaries.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi