India has come together to honor one of its most beloved cultural figures through the Bhupen Hazarika Centenary Celebration, which officially began on September 8, 2025, in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the multi-day event, which commemorates the 100th birth anniversary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika—a legendary musician, poet, filmmaker, and humanist.
The celebrations are being held at Vigyan Bhawan, with cultural performances, exhibitions, and panel discussions planned throughout the week. Moreover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to join the event on September 13, when a ₹100 commemorative coin will be unveiled in honor of Hazarika’s legacy.
Who Was Bhupen Hazarika? A Cultural Icon of India
The Voice of the Brahmaputra
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika (1926–2011) is widely revered as the “Bard of the Brahmaputra.” A gifted singer, composer, lyricist, filmmaker, and activist, his work transcended linguistic and regional boundaries. Singing in Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, and other Indian languages, Hazarika’s music carried messages of humanity, brotherhood, and social justice.
Notably, his songs like “Manuhe Manuhor Babe” and “Ganga Behti Ho Kyun” still resonate with listeners today. His ability to blend music with meaningful social commentary set him apart from his contemporaries.
“Dr. Hazarika’s voice spoke for the masses,” noted a senior official from the Ministry of Culture during the opening ceremony.
Centenary Event Highlights in New Delhi
The Bhupen Hazarika Centenary Celebration in Delhi will span several days and include:
1. Commemorative Coin Release
On September 13, PM Modi will release a ₹100 commemorative coin bearing Hazarika’s likeness and motifs from his artistic journey.
2. Cultural Performances
The event features live renditions of Hazarika’s most beloved compositions by top musicians from Assam and across India.
3. Archival Exhibition
Curated by the National Gallery of Modern Art, the exhibition includes rare photos, handwritten lyrics, awards, film posters, and original recordings.
4. Panel Discussions
Scholars and artists will explore Hazarika’s influence on cinema, music, and the socio-political fabric of post-independence India.
Bridging Regions Through Culture
Born in Sadiya, Assam, Bhupen Hazarika earned degrees from Banaras Hindu University and Columbia University. He later worked with cultural icons like Paul Robeson, whose influence shaped his lifelong commitment to using music as a tool for social change.
Hazarika’s works often highlighted themes of unity in diversity, and his songs are still taught in schools and performed in community gatherings across the Northeast, West Bengal, and Maharashtra.
National and Global Recognition
Hazarika received numerous honors during his lifetime, including:
- Padma Bhushan (2001)
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1992)
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1987)
- Bharat Ratna (2019, posthumously)
He also served as the Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi and was a member of the Assam Legislative Assembly, blending art and activism seamlessly.
Celebrations Across India
While the central event is in Delhi, multiple states—including Assam, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra—are organizing satellite celebrations.
Dibrugarh Joins In
In Dibrugarh, a city-wide public address system now plays Hazarika’s songs every morning and evening. Local schools are holding competitions and lectures on his life.
Film Festivals
A curated Bhupen Hazarika Film Retrospective will be screened at the India International Centre and later travel to Guwahati, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Why This Centenary Matters
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s centenary is more than a milestone—it’s a reminder of the cultural unity India stands for, especially at a time when regional identities often become politicized.
His legacy is a call to remember that music can unite where politics divides.
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