GUWAHATI: Eminent Assamese scholar, educationist and literary critic Dr Hiren Gohain will be honoured with the prestigious Swahid Kushal Konwar Award for 2026 by the TYPA Golaghat District Committee.
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The award will be presented on June 15 in recognition of Dr Gohain’s outstanding contribution to Assamese literature, intellectual thought, socio-political discourse and public life.
Widely regarded as one of Assam’s most influential intellectuals, Dr Gohain has played a significant role in shaping literary and public discussions in the state for several decades. Through his writings, lectures and public engagements, he has consistently addressed issues related to literature, politics, culture, identity and social change in Assam and the Northeast.
Dr Gohain was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1989 for his work on Srimanta Sankardev. Over the years, he has authored several acclaimed books and essays in both Assamese and English, including Assam, A Burning Question, Tradition & Paradise Lost and Struggling in a Time Warp.
He has also contributed extensively to journals and publications such as Economic and Political Weekly, writing on topics ranging from Assamese nationalism and democracy to secularism, education and contemporary socio-political developments.
Known for his strong and outspoken opinions, Dr Gohain has frequently voiced concerns over extremism, communal politics and policies affecting Assam and the wider country. He was among the prominent intellectuals who actively opposed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and participated in public movements linked to the issue.
Apart from his literary and academic contributions, Dr Gohain was also associated with peace initiatives involving the Government of India and the banned insurgent group United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).
The TYPA Golaghat District Committee stated that the honour recognises Dr Gohain’s lifelong dedication to Assamese society, literature and progressive intellectual discourse.