KOKRAJHAR,NOV 5: Pramod Boro, the chief executive member of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) on Tuesday unveiled a grand statue of the legendary “Bard of Brahmaputra” Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, at Sudhakantha Kanan in Kokrajhar, marking the death anniversary of the iconic cultural figure. The event also saw the launch of a souvenir titled ‘Bhupendra Baibhav’ in his honor on the occasion.
The anniversary of Bhupen Hazarika was organised by Dr Bhupen Hazarika Memorial Samiti in association with government of Bodoland Territorial Region to recall the contributions of Sudhakhanta Bhupen Hazarika.
In his address, CEM Pramod Boro emphasized that the statue was more than just a tribute to Dr. Bhupen Hazarika- it represented the enduring spirit of unity, collective growth, and social harmony. Reflecting on Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s immense contributions to Assamese music, culture, and social integration, Boro highlighted the BTC government’s ongoing efforts to foster unity in diversity. He spoke about the need to preserve the distinct identities of all communities in Bodoland, while also ensuring their active participation in the region’s socio-economic progress.
As part of this vision, Boro announced a series of development initiatives aimed at enhancing Bodoland’s socio-cultural landscape. Key announcements included the construction of a statue of renowned cultural icon Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha in Tamulpur, and the establishment of a Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Bhawan in Baksa, with an investment of over Rs.10 crore.
Furthermore, Boro extended support for the translation of over 200 songs by Dr. Bhupen Hazarika into the Bodo language, a project that will be carried out in Kokrajhar.
Assam Minister for Textiles and Guardian Minister of Kokrajhar, Urkhao Gwra Brahma, also addressed the gathering, praising Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s timeless legacy. He spoke about BTC’s commitment to preserving the cultural identity of the region while promoting harmony and collaboration across Bodoland’s diverse communities.
Former President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha and ex-DGP, Kuladhar Saikia, lauded the efforts to bring this vision to fruition. He described the statue as a powerful symbol of humanity and a reminder of Dr. Hazarika’s global influence, which transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including MP Joyanta Basumatary, MLA Lawrence Islary, Kokrajhar DC Masanda Pertin, President of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha, Dr. Surath Narzary, prominent artist Kamal Chandra Kataki among others, who celebrated Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s enduring legacy.
