GUWAHATI: On the occasion of Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s death anniversary, the Rotary Club of Guwahati honoured renowned singer, poet, lyricist, and composer, Dr Lakhyahira Das, on Sunday.
Paying a heartfelt tribute to the legendary “Bard of Brahmaputra”, the club conferred the “Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Award” to the artiste at the Guwahati Press Club as part of a formal programme commemorating the Bharat Ratna’s death anniversary.
Dr. Das, a prominent figure in the world of music, was recognised for her invaluable contributions to Assamese folk music.
In her gracious acceptance speech, Dr Das expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Rotary Club and extended her best wishes and blessings to the audience and the youth.
She further encouraged the youth to carry forward the legacy of Dr Hazarika and his pioneering work in the realms of art and culture. Dr. Das also shared inspiring anecdotes from her life, igniting the spirits of those in attendance. She concluded her speech with a soulful rendition that left the audience deeply moved.
The award ceremony was graced with the presence of a slew of dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts. Dr Das received a gamusa, japi, xorai, bankahi, a pair of notable books and a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her outstanding achievements.
The Rotary Club’s steadfast support, and the backing of JBF (Just Be Friendly), a non-profit organisation based in Guwahati, played a pivotal role in realising this cultural celebration.
Dr Sashanka Sekhar Dutta, president of club, highlighted that this initiative, which began in 2021, aims to pay homage to the luminaries associated with Assam’s cultural sphere.
It also serves as an endeavour to instil a passion for culture and heritage among the younger generation. The Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Award serves as a beacon of recognition for those who continue to enrich Assam’s cultural tapestry with their artistic endeavours, he said.