HT Digital,
Morigaon, Jan 30: Renowned playwright, director, poet and writer Rafikul Hussain was felicitated with the inaugural Lalilang Award 2025 at a solemn ceremony held at Nipun Deka Smriti Bhawan in Morigaon on Friday.
Instituted in memory of eminent drama artiste Nipun Deka, the award was presented for the first time by Morigaon-based premier theatre group Lalilang – The Theatre Rhythm. The honour comprised a memento, a citation, a sarai and a cash award of Rs 10,000.
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The programme began on an auspicious note with a bargeet performance by Anamika Bora, a student of Mahila Home Model School (MHMS), who was later felicitated by Lalilang secretary Bhabesh Khatanier. Late Nipun Deka’s elder daughter Nirala Bora lit the ceremonial lamp, while retired teacher Uma Das paid tribute by lighting an earthen lamp before Deka’s portrait.
Several local theatre organisations, including Ramdhenu Natyagusthi, Sanmilita Natyagusthi, Samalai Natyagusthi, Asom Natya Sanmilan and Lekhika Samarooh Samiti, honoured Hussain with traditional gamosas.
Dr Saradashree Choudhury, Assistant Professor of English at Morigaon College, spoke on the life and artistic journey of Nipun Deka. His son, noted social worker Ashok Deka, reflected on his father’s lifelong dedication to theatre. Eminent poet Keshab Bora, the keynote speaker, highlighted Rafikul Hussain’s association with Morigaon and his contribution to socially committed theatre, which captivated the audience.
Receiving the award, Rafikul Hussain said such recognitions inspire creative minds and are essential to encourage individuals who dedicate their lives to art and society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by advisor Khagen Mahanta.
