Safiqur Rahman, Nagaon: Meghalaya-based painter and sculptor Raphael Warjri was conferred the Pranab Barua Artist Award on Sunday at a function held at the Pranab Barua Kala Kshetra in Nagaon (Pranab Barua Artist Award).
Accepting the award, Warjri said, “The late Pranab Barua was not just an artist, but a source of inspiration. I drew inspiration from him to become an artist. I met him in 1996 at a workshop held in Shillong, and seeing his paintings there deeply inspired me. Today, receiving an award in his name brings me immense joy.”
The internationally acclaimed artist from Meghalaya also remarked that the award would help strengthen a sense of brotherhood between Meghalaya and Assam, as well as foster cordial relations between the two states and the wider Northeast.
Tributes to Pranab Barua’s Legacy
The programme was anchored by Ananya Bhuyan, granddaughter of Pranab Barua. At the outset, Sulakshana Barua Bhuyan, the worthy daughter of the late artist, delivered the welcome address.
Speaking as a distinguished guest, noted poet Dr. Prayag Saikia said, “Each of Pranab Barua’s paintings is invaluable. Since paintings speak, every one of his works conveys the full essence of his creations.” After his brief address, Dr. Saikia recited a poem recalling the late artist, leaving the audience moved.
Another painter, Gokul Chettri, said, “Pranab Barua created art not only for Nagaon or Assam, but for the whole of India and the world.”
Dr. Sujoy Hazarika, a member of the organising committee, presented an extended reflection on the life and philosophy of the late artist.
MLA Highlights Cultural Responsibility
Attending as the chief guest, Rupak Sarma, MLA of the Nagaon-Batadrava constituency, stated, “Late artist Pranab Barua brought pride to Nagaon through his artistic talent. What he has left behind for us in the fields of painting and sculpture must be preserved for generations.”
Expressing pride in being associated with the award ceremony held in the artist’s name, Sarma praised the initiative. On behalf of the artist’s family, he thanked Sulakshana Barua Bhuyan for spending from her own resources to construct the Pranab Barua Kala Kshetra, preserve the artworks created by her father, and institute the award in his name.
Award Details and Other Announcements
As part of the Pranab Barua Artist Award, Raphael Warjri was presented with a citation, a cheleng, a memento, and a cash prize of Rs.25,000.
During the programme, Sulakshana Barua Bhuyan announced, through MLA Rupak Sarma, that the family would install a bust of Pranab Barua at the Pranab Barua Udyan in Nagaon.
The event began with the screening of a documentary titled “Ganasilpi Pranab Barua”, produced by his granddaughter Ananya Bhuyan.
Later, a short video based on the artistic works of award recipient Raphael Warjri was screened. Prepared by Nripen Saikia, Coordinating Director of Pranab Barua Kala Kshetra, the video highlighted Warjri’s creations rooted in the traditional folklore and folk culture of the Khasi community.
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