Ariful Islam/Guwahati

A gifted 15-year-old girl from Rangia in Assam’s Kamrup district has demonstrated that hard work, dedication, determination and proper guidance can help one succeed, regardless of circumstances. Tanaj Saikia, a multitalented teenager from Sahan village under the Rangia subdivision of Kamrup (Rural) district, has brought pride to the entire region through her exceptional creativity.

Driven by love of literature, Tanaj published an anthology of poems titled The Burning Light. The book has earned appreciation in literary circles and brought her significant recognition. She recently received the national-level ‘Legacy of Literacy’ award for the anthology.

Currently a Class X student at Modern Public School in Rangia, Tanaj has drawn widespread attention with her accomplishment, bringing a wave of joy to the locality.

Tanaj with her father Dr Abdul Salam

In an interaction with Awaz-The Voice, Tanaj said: “I published my poetry collection, The Burning Light, a year ago. It contains about 50 poems. Recently, I submitted an online application for the ‘Legacy of Literacy’ award organised by ‘Literature Times’. My anthology was nominated, and I eventually won the award. When I submitted the application, I did not expect to win. This award has given me considerable confidence and encouraged me to continue doing good work in literature.”

“I began writing poetry when I was in Class V. My initial inspiration came from my elder brother. He writes poetry, and watching him inspired me to start writing too. I try to express my thoughts through poetry. Young people like us cannot always share everything on our minds with others. So I began trying to express those unspoken thoughts through poetry. So far, I have written more than 200 poems. I have already published 50, and I hope to publish many of the remaining 150,” Tanaj said.

Her talents are not confined to a single field. Deeply drawn to literature and culture since childhood, Tanaj writes particularly beautiful poetry in English. Her poems reflect the realities of life, the beauty of nature and human emotions with a sensitivity that readily touches readers’ hearts.

Tanaj playing Guitar

Besides expressing herself through poetry, Tanaj is an accomplished singer and instrumentalist. She is receiving formal music training while continuing to practise and modulate her voice. Her musical abilities extend to playing instruments, and she finds a distinct sense of inner joy in playing the guitar and harmonium in her spare time.

“I want to write my own songs, compose the music and sing them myself. I also hope to release an album in the near future. I am currently taking music lessons, and I believe that with proper training, I will be able to fulfil my ambition,” Tanaj said.

Poetry, singing and playing musical instruments bring Tanaj joy and have a positive influence on her studies. “All these activities keep me mentally calm and improve my concentration on my studies. These help me prepare well for the High School Leaving Certificate examination,” she said.

The Legacy of Literature Award

Her parents’ contributions and sacrifices have played the greatest role in her success. The journey from an ordinary village to national recognition has not been easy for Tanaj. Yet their constant efforts, immense hard work and unwavering emotional support have helped her turn her dreams into reality. They have encouraged their daughter at every step and provided all the resources and opportunities needed to nurture her talents. Their selfless sacrifices and encouragement remain the strongest driving force in her life.

Tanaj’s father, Dr Abdul Salam, said, “As parents, we are extremely happy. When Tanaj began writing, we thought she was doing it simply because she enjoyed writing poetry. Initially, we did not pay much attention to it. But considering the recognition she has received at an age when children are still chasing butterflies, I believe she will go a long way.”

“When I read her poems, I cannot always fully understand them. Whenever I read one, I have to ask her the meanings of certain words. Her poetry is deeply thoughtful and meaningful. What I particularly appreciate is the depth her poems possess at this age. She will certainly be able to go a long way in the future.

“We tend to want to raise our children within certain confinements. That is not a good thing. Our society has continued to keep children within such limits, and it should not do so. Many children cannot express their thoughts freely to their parents, and as a result, many talents wither before they get a chance to blossom,” he said.

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Speaking about her plans and dreams, Tanaj said she hopes to grow into an established and accomplished writer. She wants to make a positive impact on the society through her writing and contribute meaningfully to literature. Her journey is undoubtedly a powerful source of inspiration for many others or her age.