Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presented the first Maharaja Dahir Sen Sapta Sindhu Lifetime Award to Nirmal Thakur at Raj Bhawan here today. The award was given for her exceptional work in education, literature and social life by Sapta Sindhu Foundation Delhi. Congratulating the Foundation for starting Sapta Sindhu Award the Governor said that Sapt Sindhu refers to a vast region of seven rivers, out of which four rivers Sutlej, Beas, Chenab and Ravi flow through Himachal Pradesh and also mentioned in the Vedas.
Himachal is also known as Dev Bhoomi of Sapta Sindhu region, he said. The award in the name of a Sindhu ruler Maharaja Dahir Sen, exemplifies his valour and sacrifice for the country and never compromised with wrong. While congratulating Thakur the Governor said that her contribution in literature, social service has been commendable. ‘Realm of Thoughts’ and ‘Understanding of Life’ were her two poetry collections which brought her fame.
He said that even at the age of about 90 years, she is actively involved social service. Expressing gratitude to the Governor, Nirmal Thakur said that receiving this award has further boosted her morale and has encouraged her to strengthen the power of her pen as a writer. Earlier, Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, President, Sapta Sindhu Foundation welcomed the Governor and gave detailed information about the Foundation and Sapta Sindhu Samman. Dr. Arun Kumar Sharma, Professor, Himachal Pradesh Central University presented a vote of thanks. Justice Suresh Thakur, Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court, and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.
