Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal presented Natasurya Phani Sarma Award for the year 2020 to renowned theatre artistes Aishwarya Kakati and Bhabesh Baruah at a function held at the historic Ban Theatre in Tezpur on Friday. The award consists Sarai, Commendation, Man Bastra and a cheque of Rs. 2 lakh.
Speaking at the function organised by the Cultural Affairs Department in association with Sonitpur District Administration,Chief Minister Sonowal said that under infrastructure development project, a financial outlay of Rs. 1.5crore has been earmarked for the preservation of the samadhikshetra of Natasurya Phani Sarma. Sonowal also announced that State government would set up a museum in memory of the cultural doyens like Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, Bishnu Prasad Rabha, Natasurya Phani Sarma and Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.
Chief Minister Sonowal also said that State government has been steadfast in savouring the rich cultural heritage and inherent dignity of all the communities, tribes and sub-tribes of the state. He also said that the present generation will have to take the responsibility to rediscover the society which was given shape and enriched by our forefathers. He also said that his government always deems it its responsibility to lend more vibrance to the state which is known for its spiritual supremacy, cultural richness, revolutionary rendezvous and societal characteristics. Therefore, State government has been taking several steps including societal awakening among the youth of the state. Sonowal also said that though science and technology dominate the 21st century, 'We have to take the responsibility to generate awareness among the younger generation of our rich cultural heritage of the state'.
The recipients of the award Aishwarya Kakati and Bhabesh Baruah also expressed their experiences on the occasion. Aishwarya Kakati said that the artistes produced food for the soul and their creations provide a source of peace and harmony to humanity. Bhabesh Baruah while speaking on the occasion expressed his gratitude to some of the personalities who acted as a driving force to his life and art and he dedicated the award in the name of mobile theatre.