Guwahati: The Assam government has taken steps to achieve “global song of humanity” recognition from the United Nations (UN) for the iconic song “Manuhe manuhor babe, jodi he okonu nabhabe,” composed by Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this initiative as the state commemorated the artist on the 14th anniversary of his passing. “This song is not merely the property of our state but belongs to all humanity. We have decided to approach the UN for its recognition as a ‘global song of humanity’. Some groundwork has already been laid. Just as we obtained the UNESCO heritage tag for Charaideo Maidams and the status of a classical language for Assamese, I am confident we will secure recognition from the UN soon,” Sarma stated.
On this occasion, the song was performed by over 200,000 singers and citizens from various backgrounds across 35 districts and 27 subdivisions of the state, creating a historic tribute. The Chief Minister also announced plans to sing another Hazarika composition, “Swahid Pranmu Tumak” (Tribute to the Martyrs), throughout the state on December 10 to observe Swahid Diwas, which honors the martyrs of Assam’s anti-foreigner movement. These performances are part of the year-long centenary celebration of Hazarika’s birth.
Additionally, the government intends to erect a 100-foot-tall statue of Hazarika at the zero point of the Bhupen Hazarika Setu (formerly Dhola-Sadiya Bridge), which connects Assam to Arunachal Pradesh. The Chief Minister remarked, “The state government has initiated this process. Each district will have one road dedicated to Bhupen Hazarika. On December 10, we will unveil the Swahid Smark, and performances of Swahid Pranmu Tumak will take place across the state that day.” He mentioned that the closing ceremony of the centenary celebrations would occur at Bharat Mandapam, a tribute that commenced on September 8, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Bhupen Hazarika, affectionately known as the “Bard of the Brahmaputra” and “Sudhakantha” (the nightingale), was a celebrated figure in Assamese culture. Born on September 8, 1926, in Tinsukia district, he made significant contributions as a musician, singer, composer, and poet. Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised him on social media, stating, “A music maestro and a legendary filmmaker, Hazarika Ji’s creations reflected Assam’s culture and promoted the values of humanity and national unity. His work will continue to inspire generations of artists.”
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/govt-in-process-for-un-recognition-to-manuhe-manuhor-babe/articleshow/125114798.cms
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Publish Date: 2025-11-05 23:49:00
