Guwahati, Nov 5: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday paid homage to legendary musician Bhupen Hazarika on his 14th death anniversary. The Assam government is observing the day with programmes across the state to honor Hazarika’s legacy.

CM Sarma announced that over two lakh people will participate in singing Hazarika’s iconic song Manuhe Manuhor Babe and form a human chain as a tribute. “Special programmes have been organized in 35 districts and 27 sub-districts, with nearly 5,000 students, youth, and residents performing the song at each district,” he said. The government will also petition the United Nations to recognize the song as a global anthem of humanity.

During the birth centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, initiatives include the construction of a 100-foot statue near Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Dhola-Sadiya Bridge) and naming a road after him in every district. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the centenary celebrations, and the closing ceremony will be held at Bharat Mandapam. On December 10, a Swahid Smarak will be inaugurated, accompanied by state-wide tribute events.

Bhupen Hazarika, known as the “Bard of Brahmaputra” and “Sudhakantha,” was born on September 8, 1926, in Tinsukia, Assam. He made a lasting impact as a singer, composer, poet, and cultural icon in Assam and beyond.