Bishnu Rabha's revolution was a sacred mission to uphold human dignity: Assam CM
Guwahati, June 20
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said that Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha's revolution was a "sacred mission" aimed at establishing human dignity and humanity, describing the cultural icon as a symbol of Assam's pride whose ideals continue to inspire generations.
Addressing the Bishnu Rabha Divas celebrations and award ceremony at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra here, Sarma paid tribute to the legendary artist, thinker and social reformer, while presenting the Bishnu Rabha Award, Sati Sadhani Award and National Level Ajan Pir Award to distinguished personalities for their contributions to art, literature and cultural harmony.
"Bishnu Prasad Rabha firmly believed that freedom would remain meaningless as long as the most deprived sections of society were denied food, dignity and the right to live with self-respect. His revolution was, at its core, a sacred mission to establish the dignity and humanity of every individual," the Chief Minister said.
Describing Rabha as an eternal guiding force in Assam's socio-cultural life, Sarma said his talent was "as vast as the Brahmaputra, as expansive as the sky and as deep as the ocean".
He added that Rabha symbolised the self-respect and dignity of the Assamese people and that his creations had continued to enlighten society across generations.
The Chief Minister said every stage of Rabha's life reflected a unique blend of struggle and creativity. From his childhood in Dhaka and student activism in Kolkata to revolutionary activities in Cooch Behar and later his role as a legislator, Rabha remained committed to social transformation through art and public engagement, he noted.
Sarma also highlighted Rabha's extensive travels across Assam, during which he closely interacted with various tribes and communities, studying their traditions, languages, and cultural practices. These experiences, he said, shaped Rabha's songs, poems, plays, paintings and scholarly works on anthropology, sociology and linguistics.
The Chief Minister further described the partnership between Jyoti Prasad Agarwala and Bishnu Prasad Rabha as one of the most transformative chapters in Assam's cultural history, crediting the duo with ushering in a cultural renaissance in the state.
At the ceremony, noted dancer Manik Barbayan and artist Madhusudan Das received the Bishnu Rabha Award 2026; eminent writer Gita Upadhyay was honoured with the Sati Sadhani Award 2026; and renowned artist Mohammad Shamsuddin Ahmed received the 2025 National Level Ajan Pir Award.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the tribute, I wish the government would implement practical policies that actually help the deprived sections, rather than just quoting Rabha's ideals at ceremonies. True revolution means action, not just speeches.
❤️ Kalaguru's songs still give me goosebumps. His 'Biswa Bijoy Nauka' is a masterpiece! The cultural renaissance he and Jyoti Prasad created is unmatched. So happy to see new generations discovering his work.
Interesting article. As someone from outside Assam, I find it fascinating how cultural icons like Bishnu Rabha continue to shape regional identity here. The blend of art and social reform is something we could learn from.
The CM's comparison of Rabha's talent to the Brahmaputra is apt - it's vast, powerful, and life-giving. But let's also remember that the Brahmaputra floods too - meaning we must critically engage with his legacy, not just celebrate it. 😊
Well-deserved awards! Manik Barbayan and Madhusudan Das are true torchbearers of Assamese culture. The Ajan Pir Award to Mohammad Shamsuddin Ahmed also highlights the inclusive spirit Rabha stood for. Jai Aai Asom! 🙌
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