Meet Esther Hnamte, Mizoram’s 9-Year-Old Singing Sensation Who Won the National Bal Puraskar
Meet Esther Hnamte, Mizoram’s 9-Year-Old Singing Sensation Who Won the National Bal Puraskar
Applause echoed through the halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan as a child from the far hills of Mizoram stepped forward to receive one of India’s most respected honours. With confidence beyond her years and a voice that has already moved millions, nine-year-old Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte was awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, marking a proud moment for her family, her state, and the nation.
The award, India’s highest civilian recognition for children, was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a special ceremony in New Delhi. Esther has now etched her name in history as the first child from Mizoram to be conferred with this prestigious honour.
Hailing from Lunglei town in southern Mizoram, Esther was born into a modest household, with her father working as a blacksmith. Her musical journey began early—at just three years of age—when she started singing at churches and community events. Even at that tender age, her powerful voice and emotional depth set her apart.
National attention came in October 2020 after a video of her singing A R Rahman’s “Vande Mataram” went viral on social media. The performance caught the attention of former Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga and was later shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, propelling the young singer into the national spotlight.
Her rise continued in August 2021 with the release of a music video of the national anthem “Jana Gana Mana”, produced in collaboration with the Assam Rifles, who sponsored the project. The video crossed three million views within a week and has since surged to 56 million views, reflecting her widespread appeal.
In December last year, Esther delivered another memorable performance when she sang “Vande Mataram” at the inaugural function of Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav 2024, attended by Prime Minister Modi. On the same occasion, she gifted the Prime Minister a Northeast mascot doll named “Poorvi,” symbolising regional pride and cultural warmth.
Mizoram Governor General Vijay Kumar Singh congratulated Esther, calling her achievement a moment of great pride for the state and the nation. In his message, he praised her soulful renditions of “Maa Tujhe Salaam,” “Vande Mataram,” and other patriotic songs, stating that they have inspired deep patriotism while beautifully reflecting India’s unity in diversity. He added that Esther represents national pride and cultural harmony and stands as a shining inspiration for a Viksit Bharat.
State Women and Child Development Minister Lalrinpuii also extended her congratulations, recalling that Esther had already gathered millions of admirers by the age of four through her performances of patriotic songs.
The youngest of three siblings, Esther has accumulated an impressive list of achievements. She has received special appreciation from former Mizoram Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai, won the Young Achievers Award presented by Dalmia Cement Bharat Limited, and was honoured as the Amul Girl by India’s largest dairy brand in 2021. Her inspiring journey was further documented in the film “A Star is Born,” which won the Silver Award for Best Documentary at the Northeast Film Festival 2023.
Expressing their joy, Esther’s parents thanked God and all those who supported their daughter’s journey. Her mother, R. Lalawmpuii, described the recognition as both historic and unexpected, humbly acknowledging that many young talents across the country are equally deserving. She emphasised that Esther’s success was shaped by collective encouragement from well-wishers since the beginning of her singing career.
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