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The Assam Valley Literary Award of the Williamson Magor Educational Trust has been considered
to be the most prestigious one. Initiated 25 years ago, it has given impetus to emerging groups of
Assamese writers, thereby indirectly advancing the process of the growth and development of
Assamese language and literature. I too was one of the proud awardees of the Trust which deserves
credit mainly because, through this award, it has set an example of the interest of the industrial
houses in the cultural and economic development of the region.
Padmashree Dr Lakshmi Nandan Bora (2004)
In the annals of the Literary Awards of Assam,Willamson Magor Education Trust, twenty-
five years back had planted a significant milestone by instituting the Assam Valley Literary
Award, the highest Literary Award till today in Assam. This award is taken to be the most
prestigious and covetous one in the state. It is also recognized as an award of high value not
because of its monetary worth, but because of the most unbiased and objective process of
selection of writers for the award. I congratulate the Trust for playing an important role in
projecting Assamese Literature before the world of letters.
Dr Nagen Saikia (2007)
I happened to be in England for a couple of months undergoing a course of training on radio
programming with the BBC in London. During that time, I had to move around different
places in England in connection with my training assignments.While on tour, I came across
people who used to ask me where had I come from. When I said I had come from Assam,
the easternmost part of India, everyone who asked me the question would then say, with an
awestruck look and a glowing face, "Oh, Assam! Assam Tea! Great!"
The fact that Assam is well-known outside the country with an identity, could be attributed
to the more-than-a-century old tea industry of Assam. And,Willamson Magor has been one
of the major contributors in creating the great tea-tradition in Assam.
I feel proud and extremely happy that I happen to be one of the close and long associates of this famous tea company, not
with their efforts at making tea but with their most commendable socio-cultural and literary programmes including the
prestigious Assam Valley Literary Award under the aegis of Willamson Magor Education Trust.
Long live Willamson Magor Education Trust !
Padmashree Arun Sarma (2005)
As a man and writer, my life is closely associated with tea gardens which form an integral part of my
life.Myoutlook towards the outer world and my vision for a strife and tension free future is born out
of the greenery of a place named Behora T.E. – a very old tea estate synonymous with the tea company,
Williamson Magor. I consider myself fortunate to have been born and brought up in Behora as a
part of the Williamson Magor family. I still remember those days when I came into contact with
officials like Mr Mardy, Mr Jwell, Mr Barua, Mr Pariat, Mr Walker and especially Mr Harcharan
Singh, who were not only my source of inspiration but also a source of energy and creativity towards
a bright future. But the name, ‘Thomas Sahib’ still resounds in my mind like an echo of a soothing
downpour, known widely for his kindness, generosity and love towards the labourers. I used to hear
all about him since my early days. It was my deceased father, my teacher uncle and my people at Behora who not only instilled in my
mind the dream for a better world but also taught me how both the management and workers could develop a bond of amity and
friendship to work together for a fully developed life and a dignified society along with the growth of the Tea Industry.
Behind any award, whether it be regional or worldwide, is a noble intention to acknowledge the creative genius that works silently
for the welfare of mankind, as well as a humble effort to encourage the creative genius to create greater works. The Assam Valley
Literary Award, constituted by the Williamson Magor Education Trust, is one such initiative towards recognizing genius; and also
an effort to encourage these creative masters and to create a congenial atmosphere where literature and creativity can thrive. I am
immensely grateful to the Williamson Magor Education Trust for conferring me with this award.
Sri Sameer Tanti (2012)
18 JULY 2015