In a distinguished ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi today, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the 58th Jnanpith Award on renowned Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Ji, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to Indian literature.
During her address, President Murmu also extended her congratulations to celebrated lyricist and poet Gulzar, who couldn’t attend the ceremony due to health concerns. She expressed her heartfelt wishes for his speedy recovery, hoping he would “soon become fully healthy and active and continue to contribute to art, literature, society, and the country.”
The President highlighted the unifying power of literature in her speech, noting how it “awakens society” and builds connections among people. She drew attention to the historical significance of literary figures, from the social awakening movements of the 19th century to India’s freedom struggle in the 20th century.
“The song ‘Vande Mataram’ composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay has been awakening the children of Mother India for almost 150 years, and will always do so,” President Murmu remarked, emphasizing the enduring impact of literary works on national consciousness.
She paid tribute to India’s rich literary heritage, mentioning ancient scholars like Valmiki, Vyas, and Kalidas, alongside more recent literary giants such as Rabindranath Tagore. “We feel the pulse of a living India. This pulse is the voice of Indianness,” she stated.
The President commended the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust for its consistent efforts since 1965 in recognizing outstanding litterateurs across various Indian languages, noting how the organization has “preserved and promoted the dignity of this award” through its selection process.
In her address, President Murmu specifically acknowledged the contributions of women writers who have received the Jnanpith Award, including luminaries such as Ashapurna Devi, Amrita Pritam, Mahadevi Verma, Qurratul-Ain-Haider, Mahasweta Devi, Indira Goswami, Krishna Sobti, and Pratibha Ray. She encouraged more women to participate in literary creation, taking inspiration from these accomplished writers who have “observed and experienced Indian tradition and society with special sensitivity.”
Speaking about Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Ji, President Murmu praised his “inspiring example of excellence” despite facing physical challenges. She highlighted his “divine vision” and extensive contributions to both literature and social service.
“Shri Rambhadracharya has contributed extensively in both the fields of literature and social service,” the President noted, expressing confidence that future generations would find inspiration in his life’s work for their own endeavors in “literary creation, society-building, and nation-building.”
The Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honor, continues to celebrate the diverse linguistic and cultural heritage of the country through its recognition of outstanding contributions to Indian literature.
