Bistirna Parore: Voyage Honours Bhupen Hazarika

RR Team

3 months ago

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has announced a unique cultural initiative to honour Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. Titled “Bistirna Parore: A Musical Voyage from Sadiya to Dhubri”, the journey will celebrate the legendary artist’s birth centenary through a series of performances and community events along the Brahmaputra River.

The voyage will be flagged off today from Guijan in Dibrugarh, marking the beginning of a month-long cultural journey. Named after Dr. Hazarika’s timeless song “Bistirna Parore,” the event reflects his deep connection with the Brahmaputra, a river that inspired much of his work and symbolised unity across Assam’s diverse communities.

Cultural Festivities at Bogibeel

The opening ceremony at Bogibeel, Dibrugarh, is set to showcase Assam’s cultural diversity. Activities include an art competition, a quiz on Dr. Hazarika’s life, and dance performances by Moran, Motok, Tea Tribe, Sonowal Kachari, Deuri, and Gorkha communities. These events are designed to inspire young people and highlight the traditions that Dr. Hazarika celebrated in his music.

Adding to the tribute, video messages from celebrated musicians such as Sunita Bhuyan Khound, Dhrubajyoti Phukan, Amrit Pritam, Lohit Gogoi, Syed Sadulla, Ramen Choudhury, Samar Hazarika, and Anup Jalota will be screened. Their words underline Bhupen Da’s unmatched contribution to Indian music and his ability to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

A River as a Symbol of Unity

Known as the “Sudhakantha” or Bard of the Brahmaputra, Dr. Hazarika turned the river into a metaphor for humanity and resilience. His compositions spoke of equality, friendship, and justice, turning the Brahmaputra into more than a geographical entity—it became a symbol of cultural solidarity and global harmony.

Prabin Bora, Director of IWAI, said the voyage embodies this spirit. “Bhupen Da’s creations were not just songs; they were voices of humanity and justice. His works captured the joys and struggles of life along the Brahmaputra and carried Assam’s culture to the world,” he remarked.

Celebrations Across Assam

The voyage will include four major events across Assam:

Bogibeel, Dibrugarh – 8 September
Silghat, Tezpur – 11 September
Pandu, Guwahati – 15 September (subject to confirmation)
IWAI Jetty, Jogighopa – 18 September (subject to confirmation)

Each stop will feature live performances of Dr. Hazarika’s songs, folk presentations, and cultural narratives inspired by the communities along the riverbanks. Hundreds are expected to attend, making the voyage both a remembrance and a living journey of cultural exchange.

A Legacy That Flows Beyond Borders

Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2019, remains one of India’s most cherished cultural figures. His music transcended boundaries, carrying universal messages of peace and brotherhood. The “Bistirna Parore” voyage is not just a tribute but a reaffirmation of his vision of harmony across communities and nations.