On June 12, 2025, the prestigious Srimanta Sankardeva Award was conferred upon the legendary classical dancer Dr. Sonal Mansingh in a grand ceremony at the Srimanta Sankardeva International Auditorium, Guwahati. The award, presented by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, honors her lifelong dedication and extraordinary achievements in Indian classical dance and cultural promotion.
This award ceremony attracted dignitaries from across the country, including artists, cultural historians, and government officials, all acknowledging Dr. Mansingh’s influence in the cultural sphere.
Sonal Mansingh’s Legacy in Indian Classical Dance Recognized by Srimanta Sankardeva Award
Sonal Mansingh’s career spans over six decades. She mastered two major classical dance forms: Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Besides performing, she has played a crucial role in teaching and choreography. She also promoted Indian dance through international cultural exchanges.
She received several national awards before, such as the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan. This award adds another milestone to her illustrious career. Dr. Mansingh inspires many young dancers across India with her dedication and innovation.
The Significance of the Srimanta Award in Promoting Culture
The Srimanta Sankardeva Award honors individuals who have made remarkable contributions to art, culture, literature, and social service. Named after Srimanta Sankardeva—the 15th-century Assamese saint and reformer—the award symbolizes devotion to cultural enrichment and social harmony. Awardees receive a citation, a gold medal, a traditional angavastra, and a cash prize of ₹5 lakh.
The Assam government highlights the award’s role in promoting the inclusive and devotional values that Srimanta Sankardeva espoused throughout his life.
Honouring the Legacy of Srimanta Sankardeva through the Award
During the ceremony, Governor Acharya praised Srimanta Sankardeva’s lasting influence on Assam’s cultural identity. He emphasized Sankardeva’s pioneering work in literature, music, theatre, and social reform that continues to inspire harmony and unity across India. The Srimanta Award celebrates this legacy and encourages its continuation.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded Dr. Mansingh’s contributions and urged young people to embrace Sankardeva’s ideals through arts and culture, furthering social cohesion.
Sonal Mansingh’s Gratitude and Reflections
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Sonal Mansingh expressed deep gratitude for the honour. She shared her admiration for Assam’s cultural traditions and the philosophy of Srimanta Sankardeva. She highlighted her interest in incorporating Assam’s classical music, particularly Borgeet, into her performances, fostering cultural dialogue between traditions.
Her message underscored the importance of safeguarding India’s diverse heritage in the rapidly changing modern world.
Encouraging Cultural Preservation Through the Srimanta Award
The ceremony closed with a call to action from Assam’s leadership, urging the youth to carry forward India’s cultural legacy inspired by Srimanta Sankardeva. The award stands not only as recognition of individual excellence but also as a symbol encouraging cultural pride, artistic innovation, and social harmony.
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Explore More About Indian Cultural Heritage and Awards
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Srimanta Sankardeva Award Honors Sonal Mansingh’s Eminence
The Srimanta Award bestowed on Sonal Mansingh recognizes her invaluable contributions to Indian classical dance and cultural advocacy. This prestigious honor reinforces the continued mission to cherish and promote India’s artistic heritage inspired by the timeless values of Srimanta Sankardeva.
