Goalpara to Host Special Tribute to Bhupen Hazarika on November 5 as Xahitya Xabha Concludes Centenary Events

Literary personalities, public representatives and cultural figures will gather for a day-long programme commemorating the 15th death anniversary of Assam’s legendary musical icon.

Goalpara, November 3, 2026: A series of commemorative activities, including floral tributes, a plantation drive and a public gathering, will take place in Goalpara on November 5 as the Axam Xahitya Xabha (AXX) prepares to honour Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika on his 15th death anniversary.

The programme will also mark the conclusion of the literary organisation’s birth centenary commemorations dedicated to the legendary singer, composer, poet and filmmaker, widely remembered as Sudhakantha and the Bard of the Brahmaputra.

The day-long observance will bring together members of the literary fraternity, cultural personalities and elected representatives to remember Hazarika’s contribution to Assamese literature, music and society.

Ceremonial Tributes to Begin the Programme

According to the programme announced by the Axam Xahitya Xabha, the commemoration will begin with the hoisting of the organisation’s flag by Jaychandra Nath, president of the Goalpara District Xahitya Xabha.

A ceremonial lamp-lighting and floral tribute will follow, led by Charumohan Rabha, president of the reception committee, and Yusuf Ali, vice-president of the Goalpara District Xahitya Xabha.

The organisers have also included a tree-planting activity in the day’s schedule.

The plantation programme will be undertaken by Upendra Rabha, an Assam Gaurav award recipient recognised for his contributions to agriculture, particularly black rice cultivation.

Literary and Cultural Personalities to Attend Open Meeting

One of the principal events of the commemoration will be an open meeting presided over by Dr. Basanta Kumar Goswami, president of the Axam Xahitya Xabha.

The gathering is expected to feature several distinguished personalities from the fields of literature, education, public service and performing arts.

Among the invited guests are Dr. Paramananda Majumdar, a researcher and retired professor of Pragjyotish College, and Padum Rajkhowa, noted writer and vice-president of the Xahitya Xabha.

Tankeswar Rabha, MLA from Dudhnoi and Chief Executive Member of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council, is also scheduled to participate.

He will be joined by Pabitra Rabha, MLA from Goalpara West, and noted radio artiste Dharani Pam.

Their participation is expected to bring together representatives from different sections of society in remembrance of one of Assam’s most influential cultural figures.

Remembering Bhupen Hazarika’s Enduring Legacy

Born on September 8, 1926, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika became one of India’s most respected musical and cultural personalities.

His songs, compositions and films addressed themes of humanity, social equality, harmony and the lives of ordinary people.

Through his distinctive voice and powerful storytelling, Hazarika brought Assamese culture to audiences across India and beyond.

His contributions extended beyond music into literature, cinema and public life, making him an enduring symbol of Assam’s cultural identity.

Hazarika, who also served as president of the Axam Xahitya Xabha, passed away on November 5, 2011.

The year 2026 marks the centenary of his birth, giving special significance to commemorative programmes organised in his memory.

Goalpara Programme to Conclude Xahitya Xabha’s Centenary Observances

The November 5 event is intended to bring the Axam Xahitya Xabha’s series of centenary observances to a close while paying tribute to Hazarika on his death anniversary.

Throughout the centenary period, the literary organisation has undertaken commemorative initiatives highlighting his artistic achievements and contribution to Assamese cultural life.

The Goalpara gathering will provide another opportunity to reflect on his legacy and the continuing relevance of his work.

Although the Xahitya Xabha is concluding its own commemorative programme, separate state government celebrations marking Hazarika’s birth centenary are scheduled to culminate at a national-level event in New Delhi on November 29.

The Goalpara observance will therefore form an important part of Assam’s wider tribute to the legendary artiste, whose music and message of human solidarity continue to resonate across generations.