Cuttack: The Jayanta Mahapatra National Award for Literature 2026 will be conferred on acclaimed poet Robin S Ngangom, in recognition of his distinguished lifetime contribution to Indian English poetry, Udaygiri Foundation Trust announced in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
The award, which carries a cash prize of Rs 50,000 and a citation, will be formally presented during the inaugural session of the Toshali Literature Festival 2026 on January 31 in Bhubaneswar.
Instituted in memory of legendary poet Jayanta Mahapatra, the award seeks to honour wordsmiths who have made significant contributions to Indian English literature.
The jury noted that Ngangom’s poetry is marked by lyrical restraint, moral depth, and ethical seriousness. His works have consistently engaged with themes of memory, loss, love, violence, and human vulnerability. Widely published and anthologised both in India and abroad, his poetry resonates with the contemplative and humane legacy of the late Jayanta Mahapatra, one of India’s most revered poets.
The selection process involved rigorous evaluation of nominations from across the country. Based on lifetime achievement, national and international reputation, and sustained excellence in poetry, the jury shortlisted several eminent poets, including Sudeep Sen, Shanta Acharya, Sanjukta Dasgupta, Sharmila Ray and Santosh Bakaya, before unanimously choosing Ngangom for the award.
“Needless to say, Jayanta Mahapatra Is one of India’s finest poets, and a writer whose poetry I have long admired. On a personal level, he was a dear friend, mentor, and steadfast supporter, to whom | owe a world of gratitude. It means a great deal to me that you appreciated my poems. Your fine insights and encouragement are deeply valued,” said Ngangom, a bilingual poet who writes in English and Manipuri.
In previous years, the award was conferred on Gopal Lahiri (2024) and Vinita Agrawal (2025), both recognised for their outstanding poetic achievements.
The upcoming ceremony at the Toshali Literature Festival is also expected to draw leading writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts from across the country, celebrating both Ngangom’s achievements and the enduring legacy of Jayanta Mahapatra.
