Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu paid heartfelt tribute to Bharat Ratna awardee Bhupen Hazarika, calling him a “timeless bridge of unity” during centenary celebrations at Roing in Lower Dibang Valley. Speaking at the event, Khandu described Hazarika’s music as a powerful force that showcased Northeast India’s rich culture, fostered compassion, and sparked social consciousness, far beyond mere entertainment.

At Bolung, Khandu laid floral tributes at the 'Statue of Brotherhood,' a sculpture honoring the legendary singer-composer, and visited the historic home of Gora Pertin, a cultural icon where Hazarika spent formative years. Now maintained by Pertin’s descendants, the residence remains a testament to the roots that shaped the bard’s legacy. Khandu also inaugurated the Bhupen Hazarika Museum in Roing, dedicated to preserving his invaluable contributions and memories.

The celebrations featured 100 commemorative flags, ceremonial lamp lighting, and a photo gallery with exhibition stalls showcasing Hazarika’s artistic journey. Khandu was presented with 'Dr Bhupen Hazarika: Untold Stories from Arunachal Pradesh' by journalist Ananta Kumar Nath, lauding it for capturing lesser-known tales of Hazarika’s life and his message of fraternity.

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Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein echoed Khandu’s sentiments, emphasizing Hazarika’s role as a visionary who wove unity and friendship through music, carrying the Northeast’s stories to global audiences. Mein released 'Arun Bhupen – a commemorative tribute,' a government-produced book, and announced the Bhupen Hazarika Samannay Award, bestowed upon cultural promoter Hemanta Bengia. “It’s an honor to celebrate Hazarika’s ideals and melodies that continue to inspire,” Mein shared on social media.

Born in 1926, Hazarika, the 'Bard of Brahmaputra,' was a multifaceted artist whose songs, poetry, and films championed social issues, humanism, and brotherhood. Awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2019, his work remains a unifying force, inspiring cultural pride across generations in Assam and beyond.

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