Year-Long Initiatives to mark Bhupen Hazarika's Birth Centenary
- first week of September 2025 in Pune :: Sarhad -

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The year 2025 marks the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika (8 September 1926 – 2026). To commemorate this historic occasion, Sarhad, a Pune-based organisation committed to fostering peace and integration in India's border regions, will be conducting a series of events and initiatives across Pune, Mumbai, and New Delhi throughout the year. This announcement was made today by Mr. Shailesh Wadekar and Mr. Anuj Nahar, trustees of Sarhad, through an official press release.

In the final years of Dr. Hazarika’s life, Sarhad had the opportunity to connect with him in Mumbai. During this association, both parties had resolved to work towards integrating the youth of Northeast India into the national mainstream.

Dr. Hazarika shared a deep emotional bond with Maharashtra. He spent a significant part of his life in Mumbai, which he regarded as his karmabhoomi (land of action and purpose). After his passing, with the consent of his family, Sarhad instituted the Bhupen Hazarika National Award in his memory. This year too, the award will be presented to distinguished individuals from Northeast India.

In addition, the following activities will be undertaken:

* Composition of music for Dr. Hazarika’s unpublished lyrics
* Special lectures, seminars, and publication of books
* Establishment of the Bhupen Hazarika Studio and the Late Smt. Jamnabai Firodia Northeast India Bhavan in Pune
* Cultural programmes in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune

Dr. Hazarika strongly believed that music can be a powerful medium to reduce violence and terrorism. This core philosophy will be central to the centenary-year initiatives.

Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Development of the Northeast Region, and the Chief Minister of Maharashtra will be invited to inaugurate these programmes. The formal inauguration is scheduled for the first week of September 2025 in Pune.

Sanjay Nahar
Founder,President,
Sarhad
https://www.facebook.com/SarhadPune/