President Droupadi Murmu honours Jagadguru Rambhadracharya with 58th Jnanpith award

In a grand celebration of India’s rich literary heritage, President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious 58th Jnanpith Award to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, a renowned scholar of Sanskrit, at a special ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday.

The event marked a profound tribute to literary brilliance, as dignitaries, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts gathered to honour the person whose contributions to Indian literature transcend the boundaries of language and ability.

Tribute to Two Literary Giants

In her keynote address, President Murmu congratulated Jagadguru Rambhadracharya for his remarkable body of work and lifetime dedication to Sanskrit literature. She also extended heartfelt wishes to Gulzar, the co-recipient of the award, who could not attend due to health reasons, wishing him a speedy recovery and continued creativity.

Literature as a Force of Transformation

President Murmu highlighted the transformative power of literature, noting how writers and poets have played pivotal roles in India’s social awakening and freedom struggle. Citing the legacies of Valmiki, Kalidas, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, and Rabindranath Tagore, she emphasised that their voices still echo the spirit of Indian identity and unity.

Celebrating Women in Literature

The President also acknowledged the vital role of women writers in shaping Indian literature. She paid homage to past female Jnanpith laureates like Amrita Pritam, Ashapurna Devi, Mahasweta Devi, and Krishna Sobti, encouraging young girls to follow in their literary footsteps.

A Beacon of Inspiration

Praising Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, who has overcome visual impairment to become a towering figure in Indian literature and spiritual life, President Murmu said, “His achievements are a testament to resilience, scholarship, and devotion to service.”

About the Jnanpith Award

Instituted in 1965 by the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, the Jnanpith Award is one of India's highest literary honours, presented annually to writers who have made outstanding contributions in any Indian language.

A Night to Remember

As the applause echoed through Vigyan Bhavan, the ceremony stood as a powerful reminder of how literature continues to unite, inspire, and define the soul of a nation.