The 11th Yamin Hazarika Woman of Substance Award, 2025 was conferred on Bhageerathi Bai Kadam in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the performing arts at Maria’s Public School, Guwahati, at a solemn ceremony held recently.
Instituted in the memory of Yamin Hazarika, one of India’s pioneering women police officers, the award was founded by a group of Assamese women professionals as a tribute to her legacy. Yamin Hazarika, a 1977-batch officer of the DANIPS cadre, served with distinction in Delhi, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. She was serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police, Delhi Police, when she passed away in 1999 at the age of 43. She remains an enduring symbol of integrity, strength, and trailblazing public service.
Bhageerathi Bai Kadam is the Principal of Seagull Theatre Academy, a National Award–winning actor, and a recipient of multiple state and national honours for her contribution to Indian theatre and cinema. She has played a pivotal role in nurturing artistic expression among young people through the performing arts, using theatre and performance as tools for confidence-building, discipline, and social awareness. Her sustained engagement with disabled students has helped foster creativity, empathy, and self-expression, making the performing arts an integral part of holistic education.
Speaking at the event, speakers highlighted Kadam’s commitment to mentoring young minds and her belief in the transformative power of the arts. Her work was described as a vital contribution to cultural education and community-building in Assam. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, senior IPS officer Diganta Barah remarked, “At a time when education often prioritises measurable outcomes, Bhageerathi Bai Kadam reminds us of the irreplaceable value of the arts in shaping sensitive, confident, and socially aware individuals.”
The award ceremony brought together educators, journalists, artists, civil society members, and distinguished guests, reaffirming the award’s objective of celebrating women whose work creates meaningful and lasting social impact.
Speaking on the journey of the award, one of the organisers, Teresa Rehman, senior journalist, said: “This award, in its 11th year now, celebrates women who shape society, breaking barriers and shattering the glass ceiling in spaces where women have historically been underrepresented. Kadam’s lifelong commitment to the performing arts and education reflects the very spirit of this award.”
Accepting the award, Kadam said, “This recognition belongs as much to my students as it does to me. The performing arts have the power to heal, to question, and to inspire, and I am grateful to have spent my life sharing that power with young minds.” Well-known mime artist and Guest of Honour Moinul Haque captivated the audience with an impromptu performance, sharing insights into his humble beginnings and his inspiring rise as a self-taught artist.
A panel discussion titled “All the World’s a Stage” was also held on the occasion. The session was moderated by senior journalist Indrani Raimedhi and featured Satyakee D’com Bhuyan, theatre director and artist; Robijita Gogoi, theatre personality; and Dr Farddina Hussain, Professor, Department of English, Gauhati University.
Educationist Nellie Ahmed, scientist Aziza Yasmin Rahman also spoke on the occasion. The Yamin Hazarika Woman of Substance Award continues to honour women from diverse fields who exemplify excellence, resilience, and service, while keeping alive the legacy of Yamin Hazarika’s life and values.
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