Guwahati, Sept 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday led the centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika in Guwahati, describing the legendary singer, composer and cultural icon as a “true son of Assam” whose voice continues to inspire India’s unity and development journey.
Addressing a packed gathering, Modi said, “Bhupen Da dedicated his entire life to the service of music. His voice carried the dreams of India, the compassion of Mother Ganga, and the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.”
The Prime Minister recalled that Hazarika, fondly called Shudha Kantho, created immortal compositions that bridged India’s cultural diversity and gave voice to the struggles of the common man. “Though he is no longer among us, his songs still echo across generations and energize our nation,” Modi remarked.
Highlighting Hazarika’s deep ties to both Assam and the world, Modi said the Brahmaputra gave him rhythm, the Ganga nurtured his mastery, and yet he remained rooted to his homeland.
He noted Hazarika’s songs of unity during times of conflict and his dream of a prosperous Northeast.
The Prime Minister also released Hazarika’s biography at the event, attended by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
Modi stressed that the government is working to fulfill Hazarika’s vision for the Northeast, citing infrastructure, cultural recognition, and the Bhupen Hazarika Bridge connecting Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. He said Assam’s rich culture, traditions and products, from the gamocha to local crafts, must find a global stage, urging citizens to become ambassadors of the “Vocal for Local” movement.
Quoting Hazarika’s songs that urged people to share each other’s joys and sorrows, Modi linked the message to his government’s commitment to uplift the poor, marginalised and tribal communities. He also underlined cultural connectivity as a pillar of national unity alongside physical infrastructure.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister called on citizens to take inspiration from Hazarika’s life and music in building a developed India by 2047.
“Bhupen Da dreamed of a new India when he was just 13. That dream is now our national resolve,” he said, extending greetings to the people of Assam and the nation.
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