Bhupen Hazarika Centennial: A Resonant Celebration of Indian Classical Music & Mental Well-Being
As of September 8, 2025, India proudly steps into the birth centenary year of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, affectionately known as “Sudhakantha” or “Bard of the Brahmaputra.” His legacy as a singer, poet, composer, and cultural ambassador continues to shape our understanding of Indian music, humanity, and community The Times of IndiaWikipedia.
A Centenary of Cultural Tribute: Beyond Music
India is commemorating this milestone with a panoramic tribute. The core committee meeting held in Guwahati on June 4, 2025, set in motion a year-long celebration, beginning on September 8, featuring events across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Kolkata, and Mumbai The Times of India. Key highlights include a biography, peer-reviewed and translated into 23 Indian languages, to be distributed to over four lakh educational institutions, with special gifting to 10 lakh persons in Assam The Times of India.
The government is also issuing a ₹100 commemorative coin, launched by PM Modi on the inaugural day, along with the biography and cultural performances by 1,000 artistes The Times of India . Additionally, Assam’s state cabinet has approved renaming Dibrugarh Airport in his honour, as part of these centennial commemorations The Times of India.
How to Participate: Official Registration Link
If you’re interested in attending the inaugural event, slated for September 8, 2025, at the Veterinary College Playground in Khanapara, Guwahati, the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Assam, has opened registration. You can register via the official centennial portal here: Centenary Birthday Celebration of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika – Register. Note: Only selected applicants will receive e-invitation cards; others may be asked to join district-level events or live screenings bhupenda-centennial.inEastMojo.
Samvaad Connect’s Dedication: September as Classical Music Month
At Samvaad Connect, we are delighted to dedicate September as Classical Music Month. inspired by Dr. Hazarika’s centenary, and celebrate his commitment to Indian classical and folk traditions.
- Voice of Empathy & Unity: Hazarika’s music, rooted in Assamese folk and classical forms, resonated with the common man, championing themes of humanity, justice, and social empathy The Times of India.
- Classical Music as Therapy: His renditions of Borgeet and devotional melodies remind us how classical music can serve as a balm, soothing stress, anchoring emotional balance, and fostering mental wellness.
Music as Therapy & Heritage: Samvaad’s Podcast Journey
Through this month’s podcast series, Samvaad Connect will explore the therapeutic and cultural dimensions of Indian music:
- Spotlight Episodes: Featuring voices like Pt. Sunil Pavgi ji (Classical Hawaain Guitar player), dancers, classical performers, and fellow musicians, bringing insights on mental health, musical heritage, and the healing power of melody.
- Heritage Conversations: Conversations with scholars exploring Bhupen’s influence in Bollywood and Assamese theatre, his collaborations, and how his legacy bridges folk, classical, and mainstream culture.
Useful Backlinks for Further Reading
- Official Registration:
Register for Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Centennial Celebration bhupenda-centennial.in - Event & Government Details:
Year-long centenary with biography & performances The Times of India+1EastMojo - Commemorative Coin Info:
Details on the ₹100 silver coin design and release numismaticscollections.blogspot.com - The Times of India
In Summary
Bhupen Hazarika’s centenary is more than a historical milestone—it’s a call to honour a cultural icon whose musical ethos continues to resonate with our collective conscience. At Samvaad Connect, celebrating this legacy by dedicating September to classical music and exploring the healing interplay between heritage and mental health feels both timely and vital. We invite listeners, artists, music lovers, and mental-wellness advocates to join us in this melodic tribute—and perhaps even register for the centenary events to experience it live.
Let’s ensure that, much like Bhupen da’s songs, our collective conversations strike chords of empathy, togetherness, and well-being.
Saumya D Tewari | 9811901985
Write to us at samvaadconnect@gmail.com
