Assam CM Kicks Off Bhupen Hazarika’s Birth Centenary Celebrations in Guwahati
Guwahati got a big cultural boost on Monday as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the year-long birth centenary celebrations of the legendary singer and cultural icon Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. The event happened at the newly renamed Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Samannay Tirtha in Jalukbari, where Sarma paid heartfelt tributes to the Bard of the Brahmaputra.
Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya joined the celebrations too. Sarma called Hazarika a true symbol of uniqueness, protest, deep passion, and loyalty. He explained how Hazarika’s songs went beyond simple entertainment—they sparked movements that captured the hopes and struggles of everyday people.
These Bhupen Hazarika centenary events will span the whole year and take place across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi. It’s a fantastic way to honor his legacy in multiple cities.
The excitement builds up for September 13, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a special programme in Guwahati. During the event, PM Modi plans to release a commemorative coin for Hazarika and unveil a new book on his life and works. This book will reach 20 lakh families in Assam and libraries all over India, making Hazarika’s story accessible to everyone.
Sarma shared more great news: a dedicated museum showcasing Hazarika’s dreams and creations will open within a year at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra. He encouraged people across Assam to join in at the community level. Sarma even suggested dedicating one day of Bohag Bihu to Hazarika’s timeless songs. "Dr. Bhupen Hazarika doesn’t just belong to the government—he belongs to the people," Sarma said. He urged everyone to embrace Assamese identity through Hazarika’s inspiring ideals.
The event saw Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Borah, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, Guwahati Municipal Corporation Mayor Mrigen Sarania, members of Bhupen Hazarika’s family, and several other dignitaries in attendance. It’s clear that Hazarika’s influence continues to unite and inspire the nation.
