Honoring the Legacy of Bhupen Hazarika: A Tribute to the Musical Maestro
A Lasting Tribute to Bhupen Hazarika
The passing of the legendary musician Bhupen Hazarika fourteen years ago left an irreplaceable gap in the world of music. However, his enduring legacy, known as the Bard of the Brahmaputra, continues to inspire us, and it is our responsibility to preserve and celebrate this cultural treasure. Recently, the Assam Legislative Assembly unanimously decided to rename Dibrugarh Airport to ‘Dr Bhupen Hazarika Airport,’ which serves as a fitting homage to the maestro. Additionally, a series of events will commence on September 8 to celebrate Dr. Hazarika's birth centenary, culminating in a grand event in New Delhi on the same date next year. Plans are also underway to issue a commemorative coin in his honor and establish a dedicated academic chair at Banaras Hindu University to encourage research into his life and contributions. It is crucial for both the government and various stakeholders to disseminate Dr. Hazarika's legacy throughout the nation. Recognizing his significant contributions and ensuring his rich heritage continues is a meaningful way to honor this icon. In Assam, we often fall short in evaluating the impact of our cultural figures, with tributes often limited to emotional expressions. We must avoid this fate for Bhupen Hazarika and take proactive steps to ensure his legacy is preserved for future generations.
As the maestro significantly enriched our cultural landscape, it is essential to thoroughly assess his contributions. Hazarika was a multifaceted talent, and there is much to explore regarding the diverse elements of his timeless musical works. His music encompasses a broad spectrum, including folklore, contemporary themes, historical narratives, and the complexities of human emotions. His unique life experiences are vividly reflected in his music, making it a rich subject for writers and researchers alike. Furthermore, the literary brilliance of his lyrics adds another profound layer to his compositions, showcasing his prowess as a remarkable poet. His lyrics alone could justify his status as an exceptional litterateur. It is entirely feasible to incorporate an extensive study of the maestro’s works into educational curricula. Ultimately, it is clear that there will never be another Bhupen Hazarika, and his magnificent voice will forever resonate in our collective memory.