The Akoni Xahitya Xabha has selected eminent Assamese writer, translator and publisher Aminur Rahman, popularly known as ‘Chitrabhanu’, for its 2026 Assamese Children’s Literature Award.

The award recognises his sustained contribution to developing literature for children and young readers. It will be formally presented at a special function in Tezpur later this year.

About Aminur Rahman ‘Chitrabhanu’

• Aminur Rahman began his literary journey in 1999 and has authored more than 300 books.
• His works include over 100 children’s books and more than 200 works for adolescents and young readers.
• His writings cover diverse forms such as fairy tales, folk stories, biographies, translations, motivational literature and educational books.
• A notable milestone came in 2018, when 50 of his children’s storybooks were released simultaneously on a single day.
• His notable works include Sahasi Rajkonwar, Madhumalati, Karmaphal and The Tiger’s Misfortune.

Contribution to Assamese Literature

• Rahman has also used children’s and young readers’ literature to introduce important personalities and their ideas to younger generations.
• His writings and translations on figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Jyotiprasad Agarwala and Bishnuprasad Rabha for young readers.

About the Akoni Xahitya Xabha Award

• The Akoni Xahitya Xabha has been presenting its children’s literature award annually since 2010.
• The award seeks to recognise outstanding contributions to Assamese children’s literature.
• The recognition is significant for the preservation and promotion of Assamese language and literary traditions among younger generations.

Why is Children’s Literature Important?

Children’s literature plays an important role in developing language skills, imagination, cultural awareness and social values among young readers.

In a multilingual and culturally diverse State like Assam, literature for children can also help preserve regional languages, folklore, local history and cultural identity while making them relevant to younger generations.

Key Takeaway

The recognition of Aminur Rahman ‘Chitrabhanu’ highlights the importance of Assamese children’s literature in preserving language and culture while nurturing reading habits and social awareness among young people.

Exam Hook – Prelims

Consider the following statements:

1. Aminur Rahman ‘Chitrabhanu’ has been selected for the 2026 Assamese Children’s Literature Award.
2. The Akoni Xahitya Xabha has been presenting the award annually since 2010.
3. Aminur Rahman has authored more than 300 books.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Answer: 1, 2 and 3.

One-line wrap: Recognising children’s literature is also a way of keeping language, folklore and cultural memory alive for the next generation.