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Guwahati: The South East Asia Ramayan Research Centre observed the 83rd birth anniversary of noted Ramayani scholar and Jnanpith awardee Dr Indira (Mamoni Raisom) Goswami at Kumar Bhaskar Natya Mandir in Uzan Bazar on Friday. Dr Goswami had established the Centre during her lifetime.
Retired Lieutenant General Rana Pratap Kalita attended the event as chief guest, while former Tezpur University professor Dr Pradip Jyoti Mahanta joined as guest of honour. Several distinguished personalities marked their presence.
In his address, Lt Gen Kalita said the writings of Mamoni Raisom Goswami continue to remind society of empathy whenever inequality surfaces, women fight for their rights, or intolerance threatens free expression. He said, “Mamoni Baideo showed that literature reflects not only the beauty of language but also the beauty of truth.”
He added that she would have spoken fearlessly against present-day injustices and urged everyone to carry forward her legacy of compassion, equality, and courage.
Guest of honour Dr Mahanta said Mamoni Raisom Goswami devoted her life to creation, which she treated as worship. He reflected on her deep engagement with Ramayani literature and said the Ramayani message of peace and liberation possibly inspired her creative pursuits. He said her novels portrayed life, society, and humanity through pain, resilience, and the dream of freedom.
He noted that her works explored the theme of women’s liberation even though she never identified herself as a feminist. Dr Mahanta proposed a two- or three-day discussion on her life and contributions.
The programme opened with a mangalcharan by artiste Barnali Das, followed by lighting of the lamp before her portrait. The gathering observed a minute of silence in memory of singer Zubeen Garg. Centre director Sabita Sharma delivered the welcome address and recalled key moments from Dr Goswami’s life.
Members of her family presented a group song, and artiste Namrata Goswami performed a dance piece. Actor Zerifa Wahid recited two poems written by Dr Goswami. Sukanaya Kashyap Mahanta anchored the event, and Centre president Jyotirmoy Goswami offered the vote of thanks.
