The first ever Asom Ratna goes to Dr. Hazarika
surjit singh
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20090203/nation.htm#18
Bhupen Hazarika gets ‘Asom Ratna’
Tribune News Service
Guwahati, February 2
The Assam government conferred “Asom Ratna” honour on musician, singer
and living legend of Indian music Dr Bhupen Hazarika at a function
presided over by Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi here recently.
A Bharat Ratna may have eluded the music maestro so far but that does
not seem to have disheartened the government in his home state, which
has awarded him with the first ever “Asom Ratna”.
Presenting the award to the musician, Tarun Gogoi said this was a
special honour from the people of Assam for the “greatest living
artiste” of contemporary times who has strived for the promotion of
humane values and world brotherhood throughout his illustrious musical
journey over seven decades now.
The award, comprising Rs 3 lakh in cash, a citation, a plaque and a
gramophone, was handed over to Dr Hazarika amid thunderous applause of
a huge gathering.