Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the cultural voyage “Bistirna Parore” from Guijan ghat in Tinsukia on Monday, marking the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika. Organised by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the 10-day musical cruise will travel along the Brahmaputra from Sadiya to Dhubri, stopping at key ghats including Bogibeel (Dibrugarh), Silghat (Tezpur), and Pandu (Guwahati).
Speaking at the event, Sonowal said Dr Hazarika’s music continues to inspire unity, patriotism, and cultural pride, comparing its timeless flow to that of the Brahmaputra. The flag-off ceremony featured cultural performances by Padma Dulal Manki, Dharmendra Baruah, and Kajal Dev, along with participation from local dignitaries. Tinsukia MLA Sanjay Kishan set the tone by rendering Hazarika’s iconic song “Manuhe Manuhor Babe.”
During the voyage, 10 musicians aboard the vessel will perform Hazarika’s works at different stops, while communities along the river will host cultural programmes, art competitions, and quizzes dedicated to the maestro. The initiative, titled after Hazarika’s famous song “Bistirna Parore”, aims to celebrate his enduring legacy and bring together Assam’s diverse cultural traditions.