Assam has commenced year-long birth centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, fondly known as the Bard of the Brahmaputra, with fragrant tributes, cultural splendour, and expansive events to honour his seminal contribution to music, culture, and humanity, reported The Times of India.
A Solemn Inauguration in Guwahati
On September 8, the state government began the celebrations with a heartfelt inauguration ceremony at the Samannay Kshetra memorial in Jalukbari, Guwahati. Distinguished dignitaries including Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Borah paid homage through floral tributes, followed by a flag-hoisting involving 100 notable personalities. The presence of Hazarika’s son, Tej Hazarika, and his family added an emotional dimension to the event, underscoring its personal and cultural significance.
A Year of Diverse Cultural Programming
The centenary celebration will extend through September 2025 to September 2026 and includes a range of events: musical tributes, screenings, exhibitions, seminars, academic discussions, competitions, a coffee-table book, and a commemorative documentary. The Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Trust is contributing via performances and a ceremonial lamp lighting at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra.
Student Contributions and Grassroots Energy
The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) coordinated a moving tribute at Dighalipukhuri in Guwahati, where 100 students performed “Manuhe Manuhor Babe” in front of Hazarika’s statue. AASU leaders pledged that each district will host similar events, featuring local youth, artists, and community members, to keep Hazarika’s message alive. They also called for commemorative dedications—such as a train and renaming national waterways—to embed his legacy in everyday life.
National Recognition and Prime Minister’s Involvement
In alignment with the centenary, the Union government has issued a ₹100 commemorative coin in honour of Dr. Hazarika. The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is scheduled to attend a central celebration in Guwahati on September 13, where he will launch the coin, release a biography translated into multiple Indian languages, and oversee a chorus performance featuring 1,000 singers from across Assam, each honoring Hazarika’s iconic songs.
Global Reverberations of Hazarika’s Legacy
The celebrations have already shown global resonance: a significant tribute was held at World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, featuring a documentary and performances of Hazarika’s renowned songs like “Mahabahu Brahmaputra” and “Manuhe Manuhor Babe.” This international homage celebrated his enduring cultural impact beyond India’s borders.
The Cultural Pillar Assam Rejoices In
The centenary is more than an anniversary—it’s a testament to Hazarika’s extraordinary legacy. He transformed the rivers, people, and spirit of Assam into universal metaphors of humanity, equality, and communal harmony. His anthem “Bistirna Parore” remains a powerful ode to unity.
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