HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Sept 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attended the birth centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika, one of Assam’s most revered cultural icons, at the Veterinary College Playground in Khanapara, Guwahati.
The event was also graced by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with Union Minister of Railways, Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, and several other dignitaries, an official statement said.
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The year-long centenary celebrations honouring the “Bard of the Brahmaputra” were marked by solemn tributes, cultural performances, and the launch of initiatives that pay homage to Dr Hazarika’s life and legacy.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi spoke about the immense contributions of Dr Hazarika to the nation’s music, cinema, literature, and social consciousness.
He lauded the maestro’s ability to transcend barriers of class and geography, uniting people through melodies that spoke of compassion, resilience, and hope.
In a landmark gesture, the Prime Minister unveiled a commemorative coin issued by the Reserve Bank of India in memory of Dr Hazarika and released a biography of the legendary artist translated into 21 Indian languages, ensuring that his inspiring journey reaches people across the country.
In his address, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma paid heartfelt tributes to the cultural stalwart on behalf of the people of Assam.
He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his presence at the celebrations, saying that it added grandeur and made the event more memorable for the people of the state.
He also thanked the Prime Minister for his touching article published on September 8, marking Dr Hazarika’s birth anniversary.
Sarma described Dr Bhupen Hazarika as one of the greatest Assamese personalities born after Srimanta Sankardeva.
He highlighted the towering influence of the maestro on Assam’s socio-political and cultural landscape, stating that through music, poetry, films, and his deep sense of social responsibility, Dr Hazarika gave direction to society and championed the cause of equality and compassion.
“Dr. Hazarika rose above barriers of wealth and status, dreaming of a world built on love and justice. His songs reached millions, touching hearts and inspiring generations across borders,” the chief minister noted.
Elaborating on Dr Hazarika’s creative journey, the chief minister said that the maestro drew inspiration from the humanist teachings of Srimanta Sankardeva and Madhavdeva, while also being influenced by the pioneering contributions of Jyotiprasad Agarwalla and Bishnu Prasad Rabha.
His songs did not merely entertain but voiced the struggles, dreams, and aspirations of the common people.
By weaving Assamese folk traditions into his compositions, he endowed them with depth, authenticity, and a powerful sense of belonging. His music, according to the chief minister, reflected a deep and genuine love for the nation.
The chief minister also acknowledged Dr Hazarika’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema, which earned him the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
His tenure as Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi saw significant efforts to secure national recognition for Assam’s Sattriya dance form, a landmark achievement in preserving and promoting the state’s cultural heritage.
Sarma expressed special gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for conferring the Bharat Ratna award on Dr Hazarika in 2019, for naming the iconic Dhola-Sadiya Bridge after him, and for commemorating his birth centenary with the release of a special Rs 100 coin.
The chief minister further observed that the past five years have marked a renewed cultural awakening in Assam, alongside rapid developmental progress.
He cited the recognition of Assamese as a classical language, the UNESCO World Heritage recognition for Charaideo Maidams, global showcases of Bihu and Jhumoir dance forms, the 400th birth anniversary celebrations of Lachit Barphukan, and now the centenary celebrations of Dr Bhupen Hazarika in the presence of the Prime Minister as moments of pride for the state.
Adding grandeur to the occasion, thousands of artists across age groups performed 13 of Dr Hazarika’s timeless songs and a lyrical poem in chorus, celebrating his musical genius and the enduring impact of his artistry.
The event’s proceedings began with a welcome address by cultural affairs minister Bimal Bora.
Dr Hazarika’s brother, Samar Hazarika, also spoke emotionally about the maestro’s legacy.
Among other dignitaries present were Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal; chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu; MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi; Dr Hazarika’s son Tej Hazarika; and his sister Kavita Barua.
Several ministers, legislators, parliamentarians, and prominent personalities from various fields also participated in the event.
The birth centenary celebrations of Dr Bhupen Hazarika stand as a testament to his enduring legacy in shaping Assam’s cultural, artistic, and social fabric.
The event, enriched by the Prime Minister’s presence and the state’s deep respect for its beloved son, reflected Assam’s unwavering commitment to honouring its icons while inspiring future generations.
