Is Assam Ready to Celebrate Bhupen Hazarika’s Birth Centenary?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bhupen Hazarika's contributions to music and culture are celebrated nationwide.
- Year-long programs are planned to honor his legacy.
- Prime Minister Modi's visit adds significance to the celebrations.
- Events will showcase Assamese culture and promote unity.
- Hazarika's music resonates with themes of humanity and brotherhood.
Guwahati, Sep 7 (NationPress) Assam is preparing to kick off the centenary celebrations for the state's cultural luminary and Bharat Ratna recipient, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, with a series of events commencing on Monday.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared his reflections on social media, honoring the maestro's life and legacy, referring to him as “beloved Bhupen Da”, whose artistic contributions continue to inspire countless individuals.
“Only one day remains until we commence the birth centenary celebrations of our cherished Bhupen Da. His life serves as a profound example. His dedication to Assam and Bharat is a source of inspiration for all,” the Chief Minister posted on X.
The state administration has organized a year-long series of events to pay homage to Hazarika, who was not just a remarkable singer and lyricist but also a poet, filmmaker, and cultural ambassador of Assam. Recognized as the ‘Bard of the Brahmaputra’, Hazarika's music is imbued with deep humanism, drawing from Assamese folk traditions while resonating on a broader scale. His songs of love, humanity, brotherhood, and social justice remain beloved throughout the subcontinent.
The centenary festivities will feature cultural displays, academic seminars, exhibitions, and community gatherings across Assam and beyond.
A commemorative event is being organized at his memorial site in Guwahati.
To add to the significance of the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Assam on September 14. During this visit, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the bio-refinery project at Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) in Golaghat district and address a public rally, where tributes to Bhupen Hazarika’s contributions will be prominently featured.
Born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam, Bhupen Hazarika made an indelible mark on India’s cultural landscape with his unique voice and moving lyrics.
His works transcended regional barriers, earning him recognition not only in Bengal and across India but also in Bangladesh.
In 2019, he was posthumously honored with the Bharat Ratna, the nation’s highest civilian award.
The centenary celebrations are anticipated to bring together Assam in remembrance of the maestro whose artistry and activism reflected the social and cultural fabric of the region while promoting a message of universal brotherhood.