Songs celebrating the human spirit echoed across Assam on Wednesday as the state marked the 14th death anniversary of Bhupen Hazarika, whose music continues to bind generations through its universal message of compassion.
Hazarika’s iconic composition Manuhe manuhor babe resonated from villages to towns, with more than two lakh people rendering the song across 35 districts and 27 co-districts, according to the state government. The tribute formed the centrepiece of commemorations for the Bharat Ratna awardee, whose legacy forms an enduring pillar of Assamese cultural identity.
At the Samannay Kshetra in Jalukbari, where the legendary musician was cremated, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma led the homage and announced that Assam has begun the process of seeking recognition from the United Nations for the song as a “global song of humanity”.
“A grateful people remembers Bhupen Hazarika as we gather within the state as well as outside to pay our tributes. It is a fortunate occasion that three of his siblings are here with us today,” Sarma said, speaking at the memorial gathering.
The chief minister added, “This song is not just a property of the state but of all humanity. We have decided to approach the UN to recognise it as a 'global song of humanity'. Some work has already been done in this regard.”
Hazarika’s compositions, rooted in social justice and communal harmony, have long held an emblematic place in Assam’s collective memory. Written during the Assam Agitation, his song Swahid pranmu tumak will be performed statewide on December 10 to mark Swahid Diwas, commemorating those who lost their lives during the movement.
Wednesday’s tributes were part of Hazarika’s birth centenary celebrations, inaugurated in September by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The year-long commemoration will include events across Assam and in several parts of the country.
Cultural organisations, government departments and local communities held memorials through the day, reflecting the reverence with which Hazarika—often hailed as the Bard of Brahmaputra, continues to be remembered.
Also read: PM Modi to honour Bhupen Hazarika with centenary coin
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