PM Modi hails singer-musician Bhupen Hazarika at 100th birth anniversary celebrations in Guwahati

IMPHAL: Taking part in the 100th birth anniversary celebrations of legendary singer-musician Bhupen Hazarika in Guwahati, PM Modi on Saturday said Hazarika gave voice to the pain of ordinary lives, and that voice still 'stirs' the nation. The PM quoted from a song of Hazarika and explained the meaning: if humans do not think about each others joy, sorrow, pain and suffering, then who will care for one another in this world? He urged everyone to reflect on how deeply inspiring this thought is. He stated that this very idea is guiding India today in its efforts to improve the lives of the poor, the marginalised, the Dalits, and the tribal communities. Stating that a few words of Hazarikas song kept echoing in his mind, PM Modi said his heart wished for the waves of the singers music to continue to flow everywhere, endlessly. Bhupen Hazarika Ji dedicated his entire life to the service of music, the PM said, adding that when music becomes a form of spiritual practice, it touches the soul, and when music becomes a resolve, it becomes a medium to guide society. He emphasised that this made Hazarikas music so special. Describing Hazarika as a wandering traveller who journeyed across India and even went to the United States for a PhD, Modi emphasised that at every stage of life, the singer remained deeply connected to the soil of Assam as a true son. He added that this is why Hazarika returned to India and became the voice of the common man through cinema. Describing Hazarika as a great champion of Indias unity and integrity, PM Modi recalled that decades ago, when the Northeast faced neglect and was engulfed in violence and separatism, Hazarika gave voice to Indias unity. He stated that Hazarika dreamed of a prosperous Northeast and sang of the regions natural beauty. The PM extended appreciation to all the artists who participated in the event. He stated that Assams spirit is such that every event here sets a new record, noting that Saturdays performances reflected exceptional preparation.