Renowned Arunachal Pradesh artist Chow Saratham Namchoom has been awarded the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for 2022 in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the state’s folk music. The award ceremony took place at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, on Friday. A total of 82 young artists from across the country received the award for the years 2022 and 2023, presented by the Union Ministry of Culture under the aegis of the Sangeet Natak Akademi.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein extended heartfelt congratulations to Namchoom for his remarkable achievement, highlighting his dedication to preserving Arunachal Pradesh’s rich musical heritage. “This recognition is a matter of pride for the Tai Khamti community and the entire state,” Mein shared in a social media post.
Instituted in 2006, the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar celebrates young performing artists under 40 in fields like music, dance, drama, folk arts, and puppetry. The award includes ₹25,000 in prize money, a plaque, and an angavastram, aiming to inspire and encourage the next generation of cultural ambassadors.