When President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 on 20 exceptional children from 18 States and Union Territories, it was a celebration of young India’s promise. Among the awardees, one voice stood out for its emotional power and national resonance—nine-year-old Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte from Lunglei, Mizoram, recognised in the Art & Culture category.

From quiet church halls in the hills of Mizoram to the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, Esther’s journey is about her musical brilliance and her passion, perseverance, and cultural pride that has the potential to unite a diverse nation.

A Voice That Rose from the Hills

Born to a blacksmith father, H. Lalnunmawia, and homemaker mother, R. Lalawmpuii, Esther’s tryst with music began early. At just three years old, her voice began resonating through local church gatherings in Lunglei. What seemed like innocent childhood singing soon revealed a rare depth—one that would eventually move millions.

Her life took a defining turn in 2020 when her rendition of “Vande Mataram” went viral on social media. The performance caught the attention of none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who described it as “soul-stirring.” Shared widely across platforms, the video bridged geography and language, carrying the sound of Mizoram straight into India’s collective consciousness.

Viral Moments that United a Nation

Esther’s growing popularity was fuelled by her ability to blend Mizo folk sensibilities with patriotic fervor. Her renditions of AR Rahman’s “Maa Tujhe Salaam” and other national songs showcased not just technical skill but emotional authenticity far beyond her years.

Her most iconic moment arrived in 2021, when she collaborated with the Assam Rifles for a powerful rendition of “Jana Gana Mana.” Dressed in an army uniform at just five years old, Esther sang alongside soldiers—a visual and auditory moment that struck a chord nationwide. The video has since amassed over 56 million views on YouTube, becoming one of the most-watched patriotic performances by a child artist in India.

Mizoram Governor Vijay Kumar Singh later hailed her as a symbol of “national pride and cultural harmony,” noting how her voice inspires unity and patriotism.

Accolades Beyond the Spotlight

Far from being a fleeting viral sensation, Esther’s journey is marked by consistent recognition. In 2021, she received the Amul Girl honor and a Young Achievers Award from Dalmia Cement, along with appreciation from former Mizoram Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai.

In 2024, she performed at the prestigious Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, where she also presented Prime Minister Modi with a traditional Poorvi doll—an act that beautifully blended cultural heritage with youthful admiration.

Her story was further immortalized through the documentary “A Star is Born,” which won Best Documentary (Silver) at the 2023 Northeast Film Festival, offering a moving glimpse into her rise from a small town to national acclaim.

National Honour, A Humble Heart

As one of the 20 Bal Puraskar awardees, Esther represents not just Mizoram but also the aspirations of countless children from India’s smaller towns and remote regions. Her mother, reflecting on the honor, said with humility, “We are thankful for the love poured on Esther, but there are so many other talented children who deserve encouragement.”

Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte’s journey is ultimately not just about music. It is about belief, community support, and opportunity—and how, when they come together, even the softest young voice can sing a song that unites a nation.