Guwahati: The North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) organised an enthralling Music and Dance Presentation titled “Poka Dhanor Maje Maje” at the NEZCC Shilpgram Complex, Guwahati, on November 24 marking the commencement of the Centenary Celebrations of legendary Assamese musician, artiste, and cultural ambassador Luit Konwar Rudra Barua. The programme began at 11:00 AM under NEZCC’s Community Cultural Programme initiative.
Organised in collaboration with the Luit Konwar Rudra Barua Smriti Raksha Samity and the Luit Konwar Rudra Barua State College of Music (LKRBSCM), the event paid heartfelt tribute to the artiste’s immense contributions to Assamese music and culture.
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The inaugural lamp-lighting ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Santanu Thakur (Musician & IAS Retd.), Preetom Saikia (IAS Retd.), Ranjumoni Saikia (SNA Awardee), and Baby Bhuyan (Guru, Goalpariya Lokageet). Oliver Temsu Pongen, Deputy Director, NEZCC, delivered the welcome address, followed by remarks from Director Dr. Prashanna Gogoi, who highlighted NEZCC’s vision and ongoing cultural initiatives.
The Keynote Address was delivered by Swapnanil Barua (IAS Retd.), Secretary of the Smriti Raksha Samity, who reflected on Rudra Barua’s timeless legacy in enriching Assamese music and cultural identity.
The cultural segment of the event featured an impressive lineup of performances, including Brinda Gaan (Chorus), Sattriya Nritya, and soulful solo renditions of Rudra Barua’s songs by students of LKRBSCM under the guidance of Teacher-in-charge Ratan Hazarika. Invited artiste Lalita Lahkar captivated the audience with her renditions.
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A special highlight of the programme was a Lecture-demonstration by acclaimed Assamese film actor Smt. Chetana Das, who spoke on the life, legacy, and cultural influence of Luit Konwar Rudra Barua. The celebration further featured colourful group dance presentations and a lively Melody and Folk Musical Ensemble by Matshyagandha Sur Samalaya, Nalbari, adding vibrancy to the event.
The programme concluded with the rendition of the Assam State Anthem “O Mor Aponar Desh”, followed by the National Anthem, bringing the commemorative event to a dignified close.
