Assam pays tribute to Bhupen Hazarika

Guwahati: The state paid rich tributes to Assam`s most famous and popular musical icon Bhupen Hazarika Monday on his first death anniversary.

All-religion prayers, cultural shows and processions were organised across the state to pay tributes to Hazarika, often called the "bard of Brahmaputra". His songs were played in buses, ferries and homes as a mark of respect to the legend. A multi-faceted genius, Hazarika was a poet, music composer, singer, actor, journalist, author and film-maker. He pioneered Assam`s film industry and has been hailed as the uncrowned king of the northeast`s cultural world. Hazarika passed away Nov 5 last year in Mumbai. Several programmes were organised in Guwahati to pay tribute to Hazarika. His family organised a day-long event at their residence in Nizarapar area of the city. The All Assam Students` Union held an all-religion prayer meet at the maestro`s memorial at Jalukbari here. The student`s organisation lit 10,000 earthen lamps at the peace park at Dighali Pukhuri in memory of Hazarika. Several social organisations and fans held a programme at Latasil playground in the city, formed a human chain and pledged to abide by his ideals by singing his songs. The Assam government, which had earlier announced it would institute an international level music award in the Hazarika`s name, organised the first Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Memorial Lecture at the Rabindra Bhavan in the city. Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said that Hazarika`s music would "continue to reverberate throughout the length and breadth of the state so long the mighty Brahmaputra flows". "His songs as well as his life would continue to inspire the people, especially the youths for generations to come through the rich musical legacy bequeathed by him," Gogoi added. The chief minister also hoped that the present generation inspired by his ideals would continue to work for the betterment of the society. IANS