In a heartfelt tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will issue a ₹100 commemorative coin on September 13, 2025, to mark the birth centenary of the legendary Assamese singer, poet, and cultural icon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil the coin at a public event in Guwahati, kicking off a series of celebrations honouring Hazarika’s immense contributions to Indian culture and music.
Grand Celebration in Guwahati
- The ceremonial launch will take place at the Veterinary College Ground in Khanapara, with wide public participation anticipated. Alongside the coin, a comprehensive biography of Hazarika, published by the Assam Publication Board, will also be released. The biography is expected to be translated into multiple Indian languages to spread his message and life story across the nation.
- Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the biography as a powerful blend of scholarly work and emotional narrative that captures the essence of Hazarika’s cultural impact.
Year-Long Centenary Observance
- The coin launch is part of a year-long centenary celebration that began on September 8, 2025, and will conclude with a grand ceremonial gathering on September 8, 2026, attended by the President of India. Various commemorative programs are planned across major cultural and political hubs such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
Cultural Legacy and Commemorative Projects
As part of the centenary tributes,
- The Bhupen Hazarika Memorial site in Jalukbari will be renamed Bhupen Hazarika Samannay Tirtha, reflecting the values of harmony and unity that he stood for.
- A dedicated museum will be constructed at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati, housing his personal items, writings, music, and awards to serve as a permanent heritage site.
- All Bihu committees across Assam have been urged to dedicate one evening to celebrating Hazarika’s legacy during their upcoming festivities.
Hazarika’s Enduring Influence
- Born in 1926, Bhupen Hazarika was more than a musician—he was a social philosopher, humanist, and cultural reformer. His works conveyed messages of social justice, linguistic pride, and human dignity, blending Assamese folk traditions with universal themes.
- He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2019, India’s highest civilian honour, for his unparalleled influence on Indian art, music, and social consciousness.
Key Takeaways for Exam
- RBI will issue a ₹100 coin on September 13, 2025, in Guwahati.
- The coin honours Bhupen Hazarika’s 100th birth anniversary.