1. Occasion
Assam government launched year-long celebrations to mark the birth centenary of Bhupen Hazarika, legendary singer, composer, and cultural icon.
Hazarika, popularly known as Sudhakantha (nectar-voiced), was born on September 8, 1926.
2. Tributes by Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi:
Paid tribute on social media, calling Hazarika a true cultural bridge who immortalized Assam’s spirit of love, unity, and humanity through his soulful songs.
Stressed that Hazarika’s music and legacy will forever inspire generations.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah:
Highlighted his role in carrying Assam’s voice and culture to the world.
Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya & Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma:
Inaugurated centenary celebrations at Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Samannay Kshetra, Guwahati University.
Sarma: Described Hazarika’s life as “a poetry in itself” and emphasized his teachings of empathy, rootedness, and unity.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal:
Said Hazarika’s songs continue to be sung by young and old alike, reflecting his timeless appeal.
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu:
Remembered Hazarika’s deep connection with Arunachal, particularly his bond with the Adi and Mishing tribes and Boluypong village.
Called him a cultural bridge between Northeast India and the rest of the country.
3. Legacy of Bhupen Hazarika
Known as the Bard of Brahmaputra, his music embodied unity, empathy, and humanity.
His songs highlighted social issues, people’s struggles, and the power of staying rooted.
Iconic works include the theme song of Gauhati University, “Jilikabo Luitore Paar”, written in 1948.
Recognized as Bharat Ratna in 2019, India’s highest civilian award.
4. Cultural Impact
Hazarika’s melodies continue to inspire peace, empathy, and cultural pride in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and across India.
His compositions bridged the North-East’s identity with the national mainstream, making him a symbol of cultural integration.
Considered a legendary cultural ambassador of Assam whose works will resonate across generations.
✅ Conclusion:
The birth centenary of Bhupen Hazarika is being celebrated as a year-long tribute to his life and contributions. Leaders across India, including the Prime Minister, paid homage to his legacy, calling him a poet of humanity and unity who carried Assam’s voice to the world through music. His songs remain timeless, binding generations with empathy, love, and cultural pride.
Timeline – Bhupen Hazarika
1926 (Sept 8): Born in Sadiya, Assam.
1936: At age 10, recorded his first song for Assamese film Indramalati.
1940s: Studied at Cotton College, Guwahati.
1948: Wrote university anthem “Jilikabo Luitore Paar” for Gauhati University.
1950s–60s: Pursued higher studies in the U.S. (PhD, Columbia University), influenced by American folk music.
1956 onwards: Composed iconic songs blending Assamese folk with themes of humanity, unity, and empathy.
1970s–80s: Rose as the “Bard of Brahmaputra,” spreading Assamese culture nationally and globally.
1990s: Expanded reach to Hindi and Bengali films; collaborated with leading artists.
1992: Awarded Dadasaheb Phalke Award for outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.
2011 (Nov 5): Passed away in Mumbai. His death was mourned nationally.
2019: Posthumously awarded Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.
2025: Assam launched birth centenary year celebrations, with tributes from PM, Home Minister, and other leaders.
