Mizoram’s 9-year-old Esther Hnamte receives Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Guwahati: Nine-year-old Esther Hnamte from Mizoram's Lunglei has been awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 in the Art & Culture category, receiving India’s top civilian honour for children from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony in New Delhi on Friday.

Hnamte first gained national attention at the age of four for her powerful rendition of AR Rahman’s "Maa Tujhe Salaam" and the national anthem. Her performances, widely shared on social media, have been praised by senior leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for fostering national unity through music.

She was one of 16 children across India recognised for outstanding achievements in fields such as bravery, social service, environment, sports, art and culture, and science and technology.

President Murmu congratulated the awardees, noting that their achievements bring pride to their families, communities, and the nation, and said she hopes the honours will inspire children nationwide.

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar recognises remarkable accomplishments by individuals under 18 years of age.

Hnamte’s recognition adds to a series of awards she has received. In 2020, she was given a special appreciation award by the Governor of Mizoram, followed by the Young Achievers Award from Dalmia Cement Bharat Limited in 2021.

That same year, the Mizo Zaimi Inzawmkhawm, the state singers’ society, honoured her with a “non-native award” for a music video of "Jana Gana Mana" created in collaboration with the Indian Army.