Guwahati, Feb 16: Lakshman Prasad Acharya attended the 9th Assam State Film Awards for the years 2020 and 2021, held at the Sri Sri Damodardeva International Auditorium on Sunday, where he congratulated the award recipients and underscored the significance of cinema in preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor described the awards ceremony as a reflection of Assam’s artistic consciousness and creative spirit. He stated that the state has safeguarded its identity through language, folk traditions and storytelling, and that cinema has helped present these traditions to wider audiences.
Recalling the history of Assamese cinema, Acharya paid tribute to Jyotiprasad Agarwala, known as Rupkonwar, whose film Joymati laid the foundation of the industry despite limited resources. He also remembered Bharat Ratna awardee Bhupen Hazarika for promoting messages of humanity and unity through his music, which brought global recognition to Assamese culture. The Governor further acknowledged the contribution of Zubeen Garg in strengthening contemporary music and cinema and connecting younger generations to their roots.
Acharya said initiatives of the Central Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including Digital India, Startup India and Make in India, have contributed to the growth of creative industries, including regional cinema in Assam. He described films as a reflection of society and noted their role in generating awareness on issues such as social justice, women’s empowerment and environmental protection.
The Governor expressed that despite resource constraints, the Assamese film industry has achieved recognition at national and international levels, particularly in the digital era. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening film infrastructure and promoting talent to position Assam as a key film hub in the Northeast.
Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Bora, MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, Additional Chief Secretary B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation Chairman Seemanta Shekhar, Vice Chairman Alekhya Baruah, and Directorate of Cultural Affairs Director Rahul Chandra Das were among those present at the event.
