HT Correspondent
TEZPUR, Nov 17: The Asam Sahitya Sabha celebrated the centenary of the historic Chandrakanta Handique Bhawan with a grand ‘Suwag Tola’ ceremony in Majuli on Sunday. Presiding over the event, Sabha president Dr Basanta Kumar Goswami said the Sabha aims to reach every section of society through cultural initiatives and keep Assamese cultural life vibrant. He praised philanthropist Radhakanta Handique, whose generous contribution in memory of his two sons led to the construction of the Bhawan, calling his legacy a source of pride and cultural enrichment.
Dr Goswami added that the Sabha envisions creating an environment where future generations will take pride in the institution. Chief guest Prof Nirod Kumar Baruah, Vice-Chancellor of Majuli Cultural University, remarked that while criticism of the Sabha is easy, its contributions are unmatched. Special guest Dr Sadanan Deori, president of the Deuri Sahitya Sabha, said the Chandrakanta Handique Bhawan has grown into an institution and that the Sabha continues to guide Assamese society like the ‘Bor Kokai’.
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In his thematic address, Sabha Principal Secretary Debajit Bora noted that Handique’s donation built more than a structure—it shaped the integrated identity of the Assamese people. He said the Bhawan, enriched by the presence of distinguished personalities over decades, stands today as a symbol of collective pride. Vice-president Padum Rajkhowa unveiled the commemorative volume Suwag-Sourav, urging all to join the Sabha and contribute to the state’s cultural journey. Former Majuli College Principal Naren Thakuria also praised the Sabha’s recent initiatives.
The programme opened with an inaugural address by Dr Debojit Saikia, Principal of Majuli College, who highlighted Handique’s irreplaceable contributions. Majuli MLA and reception committee chairman Bhuban Gam delivered the welcome speech. The open session at the Banshigopal Natya Mandir of Sri Sri Garmur Satra saw attendance from several dignitaries, including Majuli SP Haren Tokbi, Central Office Secretary Dr Jyotirekha Hazarika, Organising Secretary Dulal Nath, Publicity Convenor Sankusiddha Nath and executive members such as Bhupen Dutta, Prabhat Bora Burhabhakta, Mahim Chandra Nath and Tilak Rajkhowa.
The day began with an environmental cleanliness drive at 7:30 AM., followed by a tree plantation led by Sri Sri Paramananda Deva Goswami, Satradhikar of Sri Sri Garmur Satra. At 9 AM, the flag was hoisted by Majuli District Sahitya Sabha president Prafulla Kumar Baruah and branch presidents, followed by a memorial tribute led by Central Organising Secretary Ram Sagar Nath and district vice-president Khagen Hazarika.
A highlight of the celebration was a grand cultural procession at 10 AM, inaugurated by Padma Shri Dr Hemchandra Goswami, Satradhikar of Sri Sri Chamaguri Satra. Featuring thousands of literature lovers and cultural troupes carrying the emblem of the century-old Bhawan, the procession captivated spectators. The celebrations concluded in the evening with cultural performances, including scenes from Sri Sri Krishna Raslila, marking a memorable end to the historic centenary observance.
