Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte, a 9-year-old from Lunglei, Mizoram, received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 in the Art & Culture category from President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on December 26, celebrating her extraordinary journey from local church stages to national fame.
Born to blacksmith father H. Lalnunmawia and homemaker mother R. Lalawmpuii, she began singing at age three, captivating millions with viral renditions of “Vande Mataram” (praised by PM Modi in 2020), AR Rahman’s “Maa Tujhe Salaam,” and a 56-million-view “Jana Gana Mana” collaboration with Assam Rifles in 2021.
Mizoram Governor Vijay Kumar Singh described her as a symbol of “national pride and cultural harmony,” while her mother expressed gratitude, noting “many other children deserve such recognition.”
One of 20 awardees from 18 states, this honour underscores how passion from humble roots fosters unity, with no new developments yet.
Humble Roots Blossom into Viral Melody
Esther’s story unfolds in the serene hills of Lunglei, Mizoram, where her powerful voice first echoed through local church gatherings at just three years old. What started as innocent performances soon transcended borders, thanks to heartfelt online videos that blended Mizo folk nuances with patriotic fervour.
Her rendition of AR Rahman’s “Vande Mataram” went viral in 2020, earning shares from then-Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called it “soul-stirring.”
This propelled her into the spotlight, amassing millions of views and proving that raw talent could bridge remote communities with the nation’s heart.
Her breakthrough collaboration came in 2021 with the Assam Rifles, releasing a stirring “Jana Gana Mana” that has since garnered over 56 million YouTube views.
Dressed in an army uniform at age five, Esther stood shoulder-to-shoulder with soldiers, her pure voice evoking goosebumps and tears across India. Mizoram Governor Vijay Kumar Singh, in his commendation, said: “Esther’s soulful renditions of national anthems inspire deep feelings of patriotism and celebrate India’s unity in diversity. She is a true beacon for young achievers.”
These moments not only humanised her prodigious gift but also highlighted the role of community and military support in nurturing such promise.
Trail of Accolades from Stages to Silver Screens
Esther’s ascent gathered momentum with a string of milestones that affirm her as more than a fleeting sensation. In 2021, she received the Amul Girl honour and a Young Achievers Award from Dalmia Cement, alongside special appreciation from former Mizoram Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai.
Her talents shone brighter in 2024 at the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, where she performed before gifting Prime Minister Modi a traditional “Poorvi” doll a gesture blending cultural pride with personal admiration.
A poignant documentary, “A Star is Born,” chronicling her rise, clinched the Best Documentary (Silver) award at the 2023 Northeast Film Festival, further cementing her legacy.
Among the 20 Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar recipients this year spanning innovation, sports, and social service Esther stands out from Mizoram and the Northeast, representing 18 states.
Her mother, R. Lalawmpuii, shared humbly: “We are thankful for the love poured on Esther, but there are so many other talented children who need encouragement.” This backdrop reveals a young life shaped by persistent dedication, family resilience, and opportunities that turned local whispers into a national chorus.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte’s odyssey from a blacksmith’s daughter in Mizoram’s hills to the podium at Rashtrapati Bhavan embodies the profound harmony that arises when kindness, empathy, and opportunity intersect across India’s vast diversity.
Her voice, infused with cultural depth, unites us in shared pride, reminding us that true coexistence thrives when we uplift voices from every corner be it remote villages or bustling metros.
At The Logical Indian, we passionately advocate for such narratives that promote dialogue, social change, and the nurturing of young talents through accessible platforms, community mentorship, and inclusive recognition.
