PM MODI PAYS TRIBUTE TO BHUPEN HAZARIKA
New Delhi, Sep 08, 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to legendary Assamese artist Bhupen Hazarika on his birth anniversary, describing him as “one of the most extraordinary voices India has ever known” and recalling his unparalleled contribution to music, culture, and public life.
Born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam, Hazarika – affectionately known as ‘Sudhakantha’ (Bard of the Brahmaputra) – created timeless compositions in Assamese that were later translated into several languages, including Bengali and Hindi. His songs continue to resonate across Assam, West Bengal, and Bangladesh. Beyond his musical genius, Hazarika also briefly served as a Member of the Assam Legislative Assembly.
Writing in a special blog post, the Prime Minister noted that this year marks the beginning of Hazarika’s birth centenary celebrations, calling it an occasion to reflect on his monumental contributions to Indian artistic expression and public consciousness. “Generations have grown up listening to his songs, each word resonating with kindness, social justice, unity, and a sense of belonging,” said PM Modi.
He described Hazarika as “the heartbeat of the people” whose legacy extended far beyond music, embodying emotions that transcended melody. He added that Hazarika always carried the spirit of Assam’s indigenous identity and connected deeply with humanity even as he travelled the globe.
Recalling Hazarika’s early life, the Prime Minister said brilliance shone through at an early age. At just five years old, he performed publicly and caught the attention of Assamese literary pioneer Lakshminath Bezbarua. By his teenage years, Hazarika had already recorded his first song.
PM Modi also highlighted Hazarika’s academic journey, from Cotton College to Banaras Hindu University and later to the United States, where he interacted with eminent personalities, including African-American singer-activist Paul Robeson. Robeson’s iconic song “Ol’ Man River” inspired Hazarika’s celebrated composition “Bistirno Parore.” During his time abroad, he was awarded a Gold Medal by Eleanor Roosevelt for his performances of Indian folk music.
Despite opportunities to remain overseas, Hazarika returned to India and devoted himself to socially conscious music that blended lyrical beauty with messages of justice for the poor, rural empowerment, and the resilience of ordinary citizens. His works drew inspiration from the lives of boatmen, tea garden workers, women, farmers, and marginalized communities, making him a voice of the people.
“From radio to theatre, films to documentaries, he was well-versed in every medium. His songs not only evoked nostalgia but also became a lens to view modernity,” the Prime Minister noted.
Hazarika’s music also embodied the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, transcending linguistic and regional barriers. He composed for Assamese, Bengali, and Hindi films, making Assam’s cultural richness visible and audible across India.
The Prime Minister recalled Hazarika’s brief yet impactful stint in public life. In 1967, he was elected as an independent MLA from Nauboicha in Assam, further underscoring the trust people placed in him.
Hazarika received several national honours, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. In 2019, during PM Modi’s tenure, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. “This honour celebrated the principles Bhupen Da held dear – that music, when rooted in truth, can transcend all barriers,” the Prime Minister said.
Recalling the outpouring of grief at his passing in 2011, PM Modi wrote: “Lakhs attended his funeral. Every eye was moist. Even in death, like in life, he brought people together. It was fitting that he was cremated on the Jalukbari hillock overlooking the Brahmaputra – the very river that was the lifeline of his music and metaphors.”
The Prime Minister also lauded the Assam Government’s efforts through the Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Trust to carry forward his legacy for future generations.
“His music teaches us to be compassionate and courageous. It reminds us of our rivers, labourers, tea workers, Nari Shakti, and Yuva Shakti. It inspires unity in diversity,” PM Modi said.
He concluded by calling Hazarika’s life a shining example of empathy, compassion, and rootedness. “Bharat is blessed to have Bhupen Hazarika. As we begin his centenary year, let us spread his message far and wide. Just as his songs connected hearts across regions, it is only fitting that the Dhola-Sadiya bridge – one of India’s most important infrastructure projects – carries his name, connecting people and lands just as Bhupen Da’s music did.”