Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said no matter how difficult the times may be, Assam has given voice to the country, and this same voice can be heard in
Bhupen Hazarika’s songs uniting India.
During his visit to Guwahati, Modi paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary singer and cultural icon, Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, on his 100th birth anniversary. Addressing the gathering, Modi highlighted how Bhupen Hazarika, fondly known as Bhupen Da, encapsulated the emotions of India through his music. “He connected music with sensitivity and preserved the dreams of India, narrating the compassion of Mother India through his soulful compositions,” Modi said. He added that although Bhupen Da is no longer with us physically, his songs continue to resonate with India’s development journey, providing energy and inspiration.
The PM said by awarding the Bharat Ratna to Bhupen Da in 2019, the govt recognised the aspirations and pride of the northeast, making the region a national priority. Modi remembered Hazarika’s contributions, recalling the 1962 war with China, where his song “....prati jowan raktore bindu, sahasar ananta sindhu” elevated the nation’s spirit and infused enthusiasm among the people. “That pledge infused new enthusiasm among the people of the country. That emotion and passion exist in the hearts of the people of the country as strong rock. We have seen that during operation Sindoor,” he added.
Modi also addressed India’s stance on security, stating that the country has given a befitting reply to Pakistan’s terror designs, showcasing India’s prowess to the world. He emphasised that “new India” will not compromise on its security and self-respect.
Highlighting Hazarika’s dedication to the nation, Modi urged everyone to take a pledge towards self-sufficiency and become ambassadors of the “Vocal for Local” initiative, promoting Swadeshi products. He recalled Hazarika’s vision of a “New India” through his song “Agnijugor Phiringoti Moi”, penned when he was just 13. Modi said this song, which aimed to empower the downtrodden and deprived, should be a vision that aligns with India’s goals for 2047 to make the country a developed nation.
Modi praised Hazarika’s role in keeping India united, with his compositions embodying the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’. He recalled how, during times of neglect and violence in the northeast, Bhupen Da’s voice continued to promote unity. The Prime Minister also released a Rs 100 commemorative coin to honour Hazarika and launched a biography of the music maestro, which will be available in 21 Indian languages. The celebration was marked by 1,200 singers performing 14 of Hazarika’s immortal songs. The chant “Bupen da Amar Rahe” echoed throughout the venue. Modi expressed his honour in being part of the birth centenary celebrations, which commenced on September 8, marking the beginning of a year-long official celebration.
Modi began his two-day Assam visit on Saturday. He will inaugurate and lay the foundation stones of several projects on Sunday.
Kangkan Kalita is a reporter with The Times of India and covers i...
Read MoreKangkan Kalita is a reporter with The Times of India and covers issues on health, education, stories of human interest while keeping a close watch on political developments and student movements. Reporting on environment and forest related issues and concerns of the northeast interest him equally.
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