Assam CM remembers Lata Mangeshkar, recalls her musical bond with Bhupen Hazarika

In a post on X, CM Sarma highlighted Mangeshkar’s contribution to Assamese music, remembering her long-lasting musical connection to the state's renowned singer-composer Dr Bhupen Hazarika and recalled that her first Assamese song, “Jonakore Rati, Asomire Maati”, was composed by Hazarika for the 1956 Assamese film 'Era Bator Xur'.

According to the Chief Minister, the song represented the extraordinary creative bond between the two renowned musicians and went on to become an enduring part of Assam's musical legacy.

Mangeshkar and Hazarika's musical connection lasted for several decades, and one of their major collaborations was "Jonakore Rati, Asomire Maati."

CM Sarma claims that their efforts went beyond mere artistic collaboration and forged a cultural link between Assam and Maharashtra.

CM Sarma recalled one of Mangeshkar's insights regarding the word "Aai," stating that it has a unique emotional meaning in both Marathi and Assamese, where it signifies "mother."

According to him, the word's common meaning emphasises the deeper emotional bonds forged via music and serves as a lovely cultural bridge between the two communities.

The Chief Minister's homage coincides with Assam commemorating the centennial of Bhupen Hazarika, also referred to as "Sudhakantha."

To honour the renowned musician, lyricist, composer, and filmmaker and recognise his contributions to Indian music and culture, the state has been planning a number of events.

According to Chief Minister Sarma, the centennial festivities also provided a chance to commemorate the close artistic ties between Hazarika and Mangeshkar, whose compositions and voices contributed to the establishment of a long-lasting cultural bridge between Assam and Maharashtra.

Lata Mangeshkar, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, had a career spanning several decades and recorded songs in multiple Indian languages. Her association with Hazarika remains a significant chapter in the history of Assamese and Indian music.

The Assam government is currently undertaking various initiatives as part of the year-long celebrations marking Hazarika’s 100th birth anniversary.