Photo Courtesy: nenow
Guwahati: Supporters are pushing for a permanent UK arts centre to house the legacy of legendary Assamese composer Bhupen Hazarika. The call followed a sold-out tribute at London’s Nehru Centre on October 9. The event, Ganga Behti Ho Kyun, drew diplomats, cultural leaders, and members of the House of Lords.
Organized by the Assam government and the Indian High Commission, the night featured performances by violinist Sunita Bhuyan and nephew Mayukh Hazarika. The Luitporia Dance Ensemble opened the stage. Media personality Hiramoni Sharma anchored the proceedings, recounting key chapters of the artist's life.
Mayukh Hazarika anchored his set with a three-language version of Bistirno Parore. He also performed Ami Ek Jajabor and Akashi Ganga Bisora Nai. His baritone earned a roar from the crowd. Sunita Bhuyan followed with a violin recital of Vaishnava Janato and Dil Hoom Hoom Kare. She finished with a classical duet alongside pianist Ronojit Bhuyan. Percussionist Sandeep Chakrabarty, keyboardist Pretom Saha, and guitarist Siddharth Singh backed the artists.
The Suraj Foundation presented books on the musician to the Nehru Centre and the Assam Charity Trust. The event concluded with a joint performance of We Are on the Same Boat, Brother. The final note triggered a standing ovation.
Curator Sunita Bhuyan noted the songwriter’s deep connection to the Brahmaputra and Mississippi rivers. "He believed a song could cross any border. Bringing his music to London and then New York in his hundredth year is our way of keeping that promise alive," she said.
Tej Hazarika sent a video message from New York. Young diaspora members Akhil Chakrabarty and Sameer Baruwa also spoke. This tribute stems from a global series launched in Mumbai on September 7, 2025. Organizers now plan to take the program to New York.
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