How Did PM Modi Honor Bhupen Hazarika on His Birth Anniversary?

New Delhi, Sep 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday offered heartfelt tributes to legendary Assamese figure Bhupen Hazarika on his birth anniversary, referring to him as "one of India's most extraordinary voices" and highlighting his unmatched impact on music, culture, and public life.

Hazarika, affectionately known as Sudha Kontho, was born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam. He created timeless compositions in Assamese, which have been translated into various languages, including Bengali and Hindi. His music continues to resonate deeply in Assam, West Bengal, and Bangladesh.

The iconic singer and composer also served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Assam.

In a blog post paying tribute, the Prime Minister stated, "Today, 8th September, is a momentous day for all who cherish Indian culture and music. It holds particular significance for my sisters and brothers of Assam, as we commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, a truly extraordinary voice of India."

This year also marks the commencement of Hazarika's birth centenary celebrations, which offers a chance to reflect on his significant contributions to Indian artistic expression and national consciousness.

PM Modi articulated that Hazarika's legacy was far-reaching, as his works "embodied emotions that went beyond melody." He described him as "the heartbeat of the people," noting, "Generations have listened to his songs, each word echoing themes of kindness, social justice, unity, and profound belonging."

The Prime Minister emphasized that Hazarika consistently represented the "spirit of Assam's indigenous identity," adding, "From Assam emerged a voice that flowed like a timeless river, transcending borders and cultures, carrying with it the essence of humanity. Bhupen Da traveled the globe and mingled with influential figures, yet he remained deeply rooted in Assam."

PM Modi acknowledged how Assam's folk traditions, oral storytelling, and melodies profoundly influenced Hazarika from a young age.

"Brilliance arrived early for Bhupen Da. At just five years old, he performed at a public event, capturing the attention of Lakshminath Bezbaruah, a stalwart of Assamese literature. By his teenage years, he had recorded his first song. However, music was just one facet of his multifaceted personality," he wrote.

Describing him as "an intellectual at heart," the Prime Minister noted that Hazarika was inquisitive, articulate, and driven by an "insatiable desire to comprehend the world."

He mentioned that influential figures like Jyoti Prasad Agarwala and Bishnu Prasad Rabha significantly shaped Hazarika's worldview.

He reminisced about Hazarika's academic journey, which spanned from Cotton College to Banaras Hindu University and then to the United States, where he interacted with eminent scholars and musicians, including Paul Robeson, whose iconic song 'Ol' Man River' inspired Hazarika's celebrated piece 'Bistirno Parore.'

PM Modi also highlighted that Eleanor Roosevelt presented Hazarika with a Gold Medal for his performances of Indian folk music during his stay in the U.S.

The Prime Minister noted that despite numerous opportunities abroad, Hazarika returned to India, dedicating himself to music that harmoniously blended lyrical beauty with social consciousness, addressing issues of justice for the impoverished, rural empowerment, and the strength of ordinary citizens.

"From radio to theatre, films to educational documentaries, he excelled in each medium. Wherever he traveled, he championed the support of young talent... Through his music, he amplified the aspirations of boatmen, tea garden workers, women, farmers, and more. Beyond nostalgia, Bhupen Da's works also provided a potent perspective on modernity," PM Modi stated, recognizing how his music inspired hope, particularly among marginalized communities.

The Prime Minister underscored that the essence of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" found a powerful reflection in Hazarika's life and works.

His music transcended linguistic and regional boundaries, composing for Assamese, Bengali, and Hindi films, contributing to making Assam "visible and audible to the rest of India."

"It is not an exaggeration to assert that he played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity of modern Assam, for both those within the state and the Assamese diaspora worldwide," PM Modi remarked.

He also acknowledged Hazarika's brief yet impactful involvement in public service.

"Though Bhupen Da was not primarily a political figure, he maintained a strong connection to public service. In 1967, he was elected as an independent MLA from Nauboicha constituency in Assam, reflecting the deep trust the public had in him. Although he never pursued a career in politics, his commitment to serving others was profoundly influential," the PM stated.

Reflecting on the accolades received by the music legend, PM Modi wrote, "The people and Government of India have recognized his immense contributions over the years. He received multiple awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, among others."

The Prime Minister expressed that it was a matter of pride for him and the NDA government that Hazarika was awarded the Bharat Ratna during their tenure in 2019.

"People from around the globe, particularly from Assam and the Northeast, rejoiced at the conferral of this honor upon him. This recognition celebrated the principles Hazarika cherished—music, when founded on truth, can break all barriers. A song can carry the weight of a people's dreams and touch hearts worldwide," PM Modi stated.

The Prime Minister also remembered the widespread mourning following Hazarika's passing in 2011.

"I recall the moment Bhupen Da departed in 2011. I saw on television how thousands attended his funeral. Every eye was filled with tears. Even in death, as in his illustrious life, he united people. It was thus fitting that he was cremated at the Jalukbari hillock, overlooking the Brahmaputra, the very river that had served as the lifeline of his music, metaphors, and memories," he added.

He praised the Assam Government's support for the Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Trust, which endeavors to preserve his legacy for future generations.

PM Modi stated that Hazarika's life serves as a testament to the power of empathy, compassion, and rootedness, and that his music continues to inspire both young and old.

"His music teaches us to be compassionate and courageous. It urges us to remember our rivers, our workers, our tea laborers, our Nari Shakti, and our Yuva Shakti. It inspires us to believe in unity amidst diversity," he wrote.

The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating the significance of Hazarika's message for India.

"Bharat is fortunate to have had Bhupen Hazarika. As we usher in the beginning of his centenary year, let us reaffirm our commitment to spreading his message widely. May it also motivate us to continue supporting music, art, and culture, encouraging young talent, and establishing India as a nurturing ground for creativity and artistic excellence," he stated.

He added that it is only fitting that one of India's major infrastructure projects, the Dhola-Sadiya bridge, bears his name.

"Just as his songs united hearts across regions, this bridge connects lands and people," PM Modi concluded.