BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 16th January 2026: In a remarkable achievement, Sushmita Barman of Ajgar Tilla in Khowai has brought pride to her hometown by winning a special award at the International Drawing Competition 2025 held in Shantiniketan, Kolkata.
A Class VII student of Sri Krishna Vidyalaya, Sushmita’s journey from a district-level contest to the international stage is a testament to determination and talent. Guided by her mentor Ruma Saha of Shankha Trayan Art Academy, she excelled through successive rounds conducted online before clinching the prestigious award. Her artwork, a striking illustration on a Punjabi attire, impressed judges and audiences alike.
Sushmita’s success is especially inspiring given her family’s hardships. Her father, Jagadish Barman, passed away two years ago, leaving her mother Shila Barman to shoulder the responsibility of raising two daughters. Shila works at a private food stall in Subhash Park, Khowai, struggling to make ends meet. Despite her efforts, she has yet to receive widow’s pension benefits, adding to the family’s financial strain.
Yet, amid these challenges, Sushmita’s achievement has filled her family, teachers, and neighbors with immense joy. “She has set an example of how perseverance can overcome adversity,” said art teacher Ruma Saha, visibly moved by her student’s success.
The victory has sparked celebrations across Ajgar Tilla, with residents hailing Sushmita as a symbol of Khowai’s rich cultural spirit. Students of the art academy and locals expressed pride in her accomplishment, calling it proof that true talent can flourish even in difficult circumstances.
While the community rejoices, questions remain about how long Shila Barman can continue her uphill battle to secure a better future for her daughters. For now, however, Sushmita’s triumph stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring many in Khowai and beyond.
