NAHARLAGUN, Nov 5: The seventh death anniversary of legendary Assamese singer and Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner, Bhupen Hazarika, was observed in a function organized by the Kristi Kendra here on Monday.
Floral tributes were offered to the music maestro by Assamese and Arunachalee people, who remembered him with performances of his popular songs.
Attending the function, Bengia Hemanta, a noted singer and social worker of Arunachal Pradesh and a close associate of Hazarika, spoke about the moments he had shared
with Hazarika during the making of the first film of Arunachal Pradesh, Mera Dharam, Meri Ma.
Noted writer and physician Dr Pekba Ringu recollected how the presence of Bhupen Hazarika in the early ’70s in the functions of JN College, Pasighat, was a must and tied a strong bond between the people of Assam and the Siang region of Arunachal Pradesh.
They also performed Hazarika’s songs.
Rajiv Gandhi University Assistant Professor Dr Jamuna Bini said, “The new generation is unfortunate for being deprived of a live association with Bhupenda, but it is very pleasant that his legacy of priceless creations is being carried forward by the youths crossing the barrier of caste, creed and region.”
APB&OCWWB Chairman Jalley Sonam lauded the contribution of Hazarika in uniting not only Assam and Arunachal Pradesh but the entire northeastern states. He appealed to the state government to observe the death anniversary of the music maestro in a befitting manner.
Earlier, DY 365 Itanagar in-charge Mukul Pathak expressed joy that Hazarika is remembered not only by the Assamese community but also Arunachalee organizations, “which symbolize his greatness and popularity.”
Kristi Kendra president Budhin Dutta and general secretary Randhir Talukdar remembered Hazarika’s multifaceted creations, and explained the legacy of Assamese culture that the Kristi Kendra, Naharlagun, has been carrying forward with the active participation of Arunachalee people.
Other attractions of the function were songs and dances presented by members of the Kristi Kendra, and others.
