A Mizo Child Prodigy Shines at Mukesh Ambani's Residence

Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte, a nine-year-old musical sensation from Mizoram, is set to captivate Mumbai's elite on January 5, 2026, as she performs at a special function hosted by industrialist Mukesh Ambani at his iconic residence, Antilia.

Early Beginnings and Rapid Rise

Esther's musical journey began at the tender age of three, singing at church gatherings. Her exceptional ability to pick up tunes and lyrics at an unusually young age was evident even then. Family members recall that she could sing clearly by the age of two.

Despite being a native Mizo speaker, Esther learned Hindi and English songs by repeatedly listening to and singing along with friends. This self-taught approach led to her nationwide fame in late 2020, when her rendition of A.R. Rahman's Maa Tujhe Salaam went viral.

Recognition and Collaborations

Esther's emotive voice and maturity beyond her years drew widespread admiration, making her one of the fastest viewer-gaining YouTube artists in Mizoram. In December 2024, she received special appreciation from Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi after performing at the opening ceremony of the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav in New Delhi.

She has also collaborated with the Assam Rifles on a special national anthem video, further expanding her national reach and underlining her ability to connect with audiences through music.

Highest Civilian Honour

In December 2025, Esther was conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India's highest civilian honour for children, by President Droupadi Murmu. The recognition underscored her outstanding talent and her contribution to India's cultural fabric.

Relevance to the North East and India

Esther's success story is a testament to the untapped talent in the North East region of India. Her journey, from a small church gathering to performing for India's elite, showcases the potential for artistic growth and recognition.

Moreover, her collaborations with the Assam Rifles and the Indian cricket teams highlight the power of music as a unifying force, transcending regional and linguistic boundaries.

Looking Forward

As Esther prepares to perform at Antilia, she continues to inspire young musicians across the country. Her story serves as a reminder that talent knows no boundaries, and with determination and perseverance, anyone can achieve their dreams.