Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein chaired a high-level coordination meeting in Itanagar on Saturday to review preparations for Arunachal Pradesh’s planned tributes to Bhupen Hazarika. The state is set to commemorate the life and contributions of the late cultural icon with the construction of a dedicated museum and the release of a multilingual commemorative publication.
A museum is scheduled to be established in Roing, located in the Lower Dibang Valley district, to showcase Dr Hazarika’s work, artistic legacy, and connection to the region. In addition, a commemorative book highlighting his life and contributions will be published in multiple languages as part of the initiative.
Speaking at the meeting held at the Civil Secretariat, Mein said the state’s tribute to Hazarika would go beyond his music. “The celebration will be a tribute not just to Dr Hazarika’s music but to the timeless values of inclusivity, cultural pride, and harmony across communities he championed,” he remarked.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including Planning Secretary RK Sharma and Sadhana Deori, Secretary to the Chief Minister. Education and Tourism Minister PD Sona was also present, along with MLAs Mutchu Mithi, Oken Tayeng, and Puinnyo Apum.
Representatives from the Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Trust, including its secretary Manjula Hazarika, joined the meeting. YD Thongchi, president of the Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society, also took part in the discussions.
The state’s efforts are aimed at marking Hazarika’s centenary by highlighting his creative achievements and the lasting cultural influence he had on Arunachal Pradesh and the country as a whole. Plans for the celebrations are expected to reflect his commitment to cultural unity and his contribution to promoting the values of harmony and diversity through the arts.
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