Extended Celebrations for Dr. Bhupen Hazarika's Centenary Amid Mourning

AASU Commemorates Dr. Bhupen Hazarika's 100th Birth Anniversary

Guwahati, Sept 8: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) has initiated a year-long celebration to honor the centenary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

However, the unexpected passing of another cherished cultural figure from Assam, Zubeen Garg, has cast a shadow over the festivities, prompting the organization to reassess its plans.

In light of this, AASU has resolved to prolong the centenary celebrations until November 5, coinciding with the death anniversary of the esteemed Sudhakantha.

During an event held at Dighalipukhuri in Guwahati on Tuesday, AASU president Utpal Sarma shared that the organization commenced the observance of Hazarika’s birth centenary on September 8, 2025, with intentions for a year-long tribute.

However, the mood shifted dramatically following Garg's untimely death.

“The sudden loss of Zubeen Garg created an atmosphere unsuitable for a year-long celebration. Therefore, we, as AASU, have opted to extend the birth centenary festivities until November 5, which also marks his death anniversary,” Sarma explained.

He added that the extended celebrations would include various programs aimed at reflecting on Hazarika’s life, contributions, and lasting impact.

AASU is also developing a memorial volume that will feature insights from individuals whose lives were influenced by Hazarika.

Additionally, a central quiz competition focusing on his life and works is in the works, along with an elocution contest in Guwahati that will explore how the youth perceive and articulate the legacy of the legendary artist.

“Today marks the 100th birth anniversary of Assam’s beloved Sudhakantha Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. For the people of Assam, this day symbolizes unity,” Sarma remarked.

The event at Dighalipukhuri included Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, who paid floral tributes at Hazarika’s statue.

The Governor emphasized that Hazarika’s principles and vision should continue to inspire society, Assam, and the nation.

“I paid my respects to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika during this centenary observance. We must strive to build a society, Assam, and a nation that aligns with his vision. We need to work towards that goal,” Acharya stated.

“His creations continue to guide society, the state, and the nation. We, along with the entire country, take pride in having had his presence among us,” he added.

Earlier in the day, AASU district units throughout Assam honored Hazarika, with 100 singers uniting to perform his iconic Manuhe Manuhor Babe in each district.

The evening event at Dighalipukhuri is expected to showcase Hazarika’s timeless songs performed by selected singers from various colleges, alongside prominent vocalists from Gauhati University, Dibrugarh University, and the Inter-College Youth Festival.

In a separate initiative, the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Assam, is hosting a program at Samanway Tirtha in Jalukbari, Hazarika’s final resting place, as part of the statewide celebration of his birth centenary.