Assam is all set to witness a historic cultural moment as around 5,000 voices unite to sing Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s iconic song ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe’ in Morigaon. The grand musical gathering aims to pay homage to the bard of the Brahmaputra, celebrating his enduring message of humanity, unity, and peace.
Organised by the district administration of Morigaon in collaboration with several cultural bodies, the event is scheduled to take place at the Morigaon College Ground. It will mark yet another heartfelt chapter in Assam’s continuing reverence for Dr. Hazarika, whose songs transcended generations and inspired millions.
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Massive cultural gathering in Morigaon
The event will bring together artists, students, teachers, and music enthusiasts from across the district. Officials said that the main highlight of the programme will be the collective rendition of ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe,’ one of Bhupen Hazarika’s most celebrated compositions. The song, which speaks of humanity and compassion, has long been regarded as an anthem of Assamese identity.
Volunteers have been working for weeks to prepare for the grand performance. Local schools and colleges have been conducting practice sessions, ensuring that every participant can contribute to the harmony of the mass rendition. The district administration has provided logistical support, including sound systems, stage setup, and safety arrangements for the thousands expected to attend.
Deputy Commissioner Devashish Sharma said the event represents more than just music. “This is not only a tribute to Dr. Bhupen Hazarika but a celebration of unity. His songs taught us to see humanity beyond barriers,” he stated.
Remembering the bard of the Brahmaputra
Born in 1926, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika remains one of India’s most respected musicians, lyricists, and cultural visionaries. His works combined melody with deep social messages that spoke to the struggles, dreams, and resilience of people. Through his songs, Hazarika built emotional bridges between Assam and the world, using music as a tool for social change.
‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe,’ meaning “Humans for Humanity,” captures his philosophy of universal brotherhood. The song continues to resonate with younger generations who see it as a moral compass in turbulent times. The upcoming Bhupen Hazarika tribute in Morigaon intends to remind people of his ideals and their relevance in today’s divided world.
Cultural historian Dr. Pranjal Saikia described Hazarika’s art as timeless. “He believed music could heal societies. Every note of his songs carries compassion, courage, and dignity,” he said.
Community participation and emotional connection
The response from the people of Morigaon has been overwhelming. Thousands have registered to participate, including farmers, teachers, and children. Many see it as an opportunity to express gratitude to a man whose music defined Assamese identity.
Cultural groups have also volunteered to perform Hazarika’s other classics before the main event. Folk dancers, instrumentalists, and local singers will come together to recreate the golden era of Assamese music. Banners and portraits of the legendary artist will adorn the venue, turning the college ground into a sea of melody and nostalgia.
Teachers in several schools said students were eager to be part of the grand chorus. “For many children, this is their first experience singing in such a large group. They are learning the lyrics and meaning behind the song, understanding why Bhupen da remains so loved,” said one teacher from Jagiroad.
A message of unity through music
The mass singing event carries deep symbolic importance. At a time when communities worldwide face growing social divisions, the message of ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe’ feels more relevant than ever. The organisers believe that such initiatives can promote harmony and compassion among people, just as Bhupen Hazarika envisioned.
An official from the district administration said the gathering will also send a message of peace. “Bhupen da’s music reminds us that we all belong to the same humanity. Singing together reinforces that belief,” he noted.
The event will also feature speeches by eminent personalities from the world of art and culture. They are expected to highlight Hazarika’s contribution to Indian music and his role as a social reformer who stood for equality and justice.
Honouring a timeless legacy
The Morigaon event is part of a series of cultural programmes being held across Assam this year to honour the maestro’s birth anniversary. Similar gatherings are being planned in Tezpur, Dibrugarh, and Guwahati, with artists performing his songs in regional languages.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has often spoken of his admiration for Dr. Hazarika, praised the initiative and encouraged people to participate. “Bhupen Hazarika taught us the meaning of love and humanity. His music is Assam’s pride and India’s gift to the world,” he said in a statement.
Organisers expect the Morigaon gathering to enter the record books as one of the largest community singing events in Northeast India. Arrangements for live broadcasting are also being made so that people from other parts of the state can join virtually.
The song that unites generations
‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe’ has transcended time, connecting generations through its simplicity and power. The song’s lyrics — urging people to treat each other with compassion — continue to inspire social campaigns and educational initiatives across Assam.
Musicians from various genres, including rock and classical, have performed modern renditions of the song, keeping its message alive. Even decades after its creation, it remains the emotional heartbeat of Assamese society.
Young participants in the upcoming Bhupen Hazarika tribute say they feel honoured to carry forward his message. One student said, “We grew up listening to his music. Singing this song together is our way of saying thank you.”
A legacy that lives on
As 5,000 voices prepare to rise in harmony, the Morigaon event symbolizes Assam’s collective love and gratitude toward Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. It reflects how his art continues to inspire unity, hope, and compassion.
Through this grand tribute, the people of Assam reaffirm that the voice of the bard still echoes through the hills and rivers of the state — urging humanity to come together, just as he dreamed.
When the chorus of 5,000 voices sings ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe,’ it will not just be a song — it will be a promise to keep Bhupen Hazarika’s spirit alive for generations to come.
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