Assam Govt to Build Memorial, Release Biography, Commemorative Coin to Mark Assam’s Cultural Icon, Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika’s 100th Birth Anniversary

Assam Govt: Chief Minister will release a biographical book on Dr Hazarika’s life, edited by noted writer Anuradha Sharma Pujari.

The Assam Government has announced a grand year-long celebration to mark the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika, one of the most cherished cultural icons of the region. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting held yesterday, where several significant resolutions were passed across administrative, health, and cultural sectors.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, addressing the media, revealed that the centenary celebrations will begin on 8th September with inaugural ceremonies in both Guwahati and New Delhi, to be attended by the President or the Prime Minister. Additional commemorative events are planned in Arunachal Pradesh, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

A special memorial structure dedicated to Dr Bhupen Hazarika will be constructed, symbolising his immense contribution to music, literature, and social reform. To mark New Year 2025, the Chief Minister will release a biographical book on Dr Hazarika’s life, edited by noted writer Anuradha Sharma Pujari.

The book will have 10 lakh copies printed and distributed with official greeting cards. The state will also urge the Central Government to issue a commemorative coin in his honour.

Among the major decisions, the Cabinet also approved the formation of 10 new sub-districts across Assam to enhance administrative efficiency. In the healthcare sector, RS 250 crore has been sanctioned for the development of eight cancer hospitals currently under construction.

In response to a rise in road accidents involving heavy transport vehicles in Guwahati, city police have launched a special drive to clamp down on reckless dumper driving, aiming to ensure greater public safety.

These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to preserving Assam’s rich heritage while addressing key governance and infrastructure needs.

The ‘Bard of the Brahmaputra’ and Cultural Icon

Bhupen Hazarika, fondly known as the Bard of the Brahmaputra, was much more than a legendary singer he was a cultural icon, poet, composer, filmmaker, and humanitarian whose voice echoed the hopes and struggles of the common people.

Deeply inspired by his roots in Assam and global influences like Paul Robeson, Hazarika blended folk traditions with universal themes of peace, unity, and justice.

A true polymath, he studied at Columbia University, sang in multiple languages, and was a pioneer in Assamese cinema—composing music for his first film at just 12. His timeless songs like “Manuhe Manuhor Babe” and “Bistirno Parore” continue to inspire generations.

Beyond the arts, he also stepped into politics to amplify voices from the Northeast and received India’s highest honours, including Bharat Ratna (2019, posthumous), Padma Bhushan (2001), Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1992). His life, rich in music, activism, and love including his enduring bond with filmmaker Kalpana Lajmi remains a powerful testament to art as a force for change.

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