A grand chorus performance featuring approximately 5,000 participants marked the 14th death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika at Chowkidinghee Playground in Dibrugarh on Wednesday. The spectacular tribute, organised by the Dibrugarh District Administration and the Department of Cultural Affairs, saw participants from all age groups collectively rendering the legendary musician’s immortal composition “Manuhe Manuhor Babe.”
The mass choir, which included schoolchildren and youth created a moving tribute to the “Bard of the Brahmaputra,” whose songs continue to resonate across generations. Assam Power Minister and Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan, Mayor Dr Saikat Patra, Dibrugarh University Vice-Chancellor Prof Jiten Hazarika, District Commissioner Bikram Kairi, and other dignitaries participated in the chorus performance.
“Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s music transcends time and boundaries. Today’s gathering demonstrates how his message of humanity and compassion continues to unite people,” Minister Phukan remarked during the event.
Mayor Dr Saikat Patra said, “Seeing 5,000 voices, including young children, sing ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe’ together is testament to Bhupen Da’s enduring legacy. His songs remain the cultural heartbeat of Assam.”
Earlier in the morning, Minister Prasanta Phukan, District Commissioner Bikram Kairi, Chief Executive Officer of Zila Parishad Bipul Kumar Das, and several administrative officers paid homage to the cultural icon at the District Commissioner’s Office premises. The officials offered floral tributes and lit lamps before the mega statue of Dr Bhupen Hazarika installed within the DC office campus.
The day-long commemoration reflected the profound impact of Dr Hazarika’s artistic contributions, which championed human dignity, social justice, and cultural pride. His timeless compositions, particularly “Manuhe Manuhor Babe” (Humans are for Humanity), continue to serve as anthems of compassion and unity in Assamese society.
District Commissioner Bikram Kairi stated, “This collective tribute ensures that future generations remain connected to Dr Hazarika’s vision of a harmonious society built on mutual respect and empathy.”
The mass chorus performance at Chowkidinghee Playground stands as one of Dibrugarh’s largest cultural gatherings, demonstrating the city’s deep reverence for Assam’s most celebrated son and his unparalleled contributions to Indian music and culture.
