Guwahati: The famous poet from Assam, Nilmani Phookan, has been named for the highest literary award in the country, Jnanpith, for his contribution to literature.
Phookan, which is a third literary Stalwart of the State to be chosen for the coveted award after Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya and Mamoni Roisom Goswami, bombarded with messages of congratulations from the cross-section of people, including the Head of Minister of Himanta Buswa Sarma.
In 2001, when Mamoni Raisom (Indira Goswami) was awarded, he said during the interview that the next Jnanpith award would go to the poet from Assam.
On Tuesday, when the country celebrated the achievement of winning the third Jnanpith, the first was won in 1979 by Bhattacharya, a literary fan remembering the ‘prediction’ of Mamoni Raisom.
What makes Phookan stand out is symbolism in his poem inspired by French symbolism.
“He is the biggest poet of contemporary moments.
He has enriched Indian poetry and literature,” said Litterateur Nagen Saikia.
“He has given us a new experience to enjoy.
Human emotions, feelings, and progressive thinking have given his new appeal.
We are proud to have it as a poet,” said the author and a famous criticism, Borah Borghain’s jury.
“Some said that he was inspired by French symbolism, but I thought he had his own style and his mind surpassed the limit,” he added.
When the citizenship bill (amendment) was passed, he had expressed concern about the future of Assamese and CAA language which opposed hard.
The Chairman of the Minister of Sarma said it was a proud moment for the country.
“One day for joy and pride for the Assam literary ball,” CM said.
Surya Henu Nami ahe ei nodiyedi, hook, aru hook’s goal, Mushroom Lagna, Kobita and Nritarisa Prithibi is one of its famous works.
Phookan was awarded the Award of Sahitya Academy in 1981, Padma Shri in 1990 and received the Sahitya Academy fellowship in 2002.
He was a dilitt from the University of Dibrugarh.
Phookan began his professional life by teaching and writing poetry in 1950.
He was born on September 10, 1933, in Dergon in the current Golaghat district.