GUWAHATI, Jan 17 � Glowing tributes were paid to the doyen of Assamese culture Rupkonwar Jyotiprasad Agarwala on the occasion of his death anniversary today, which is observed as Silpi Divas across the State every year.
Various cultural programmes and tribute paying ceremonies marked the occasion in different corners of the State.
Two eminent artistes of the State, lyricist Kirti Kamal Bhuyan and singer Dwipen Barua were honoured with the Silpi Bota (artistes� award) at a function organised at the Rabindra Bhawan here under the aegis of the State Directorate of Cultural Affairs.
Each of the awards carries a citation, Rs 1 lakh in cash, a shawl and a sorai.
Kirti Kamal Bhuyan, a multifaceted personality, has enriched the music world of the State with several hundred songs. Also a poet, playwright, translator and essayist, Bhuyan has several books to his credit, including a poetry collection Soi hengulia nau, collection of songs Gane Gane and children�s book Padyat jiba jantu.
Dwipen Barua, who started his career as a cricketer, later on shifted to playback singing. Barua has sung several unforgettable songs for Assamese cinema. Some of the popular movies in which he has sung include Jug Biyug, Lolita, Mukuta, Toramai, Manab Aru Danab, Koka Deuta Nati Aru Hati, Ajoli Nobow, Antony Mor Naam, etc.
Speaking on the occasion, both the artistes thanked the State government for honouring them with the award named after an iconic cultural figure of the State, and expressed the desire to work in their respective fields with renewed enthusiasm. Barua sang a few lines from his popular song Ki Naam Di Matim.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said the State was blessed to have legendary figures like Rupkonwar. �Art and culture unite the society and bridge the gap between people and communities. At present times, when violence is weakening the bonding among people, culture and artistes have a great role in strengthening the society,� he said.
Minister of Cultural Affairs Pranati Phukan and Commissioner and Secretary of Department of Cultural Affairs Pritam Saikia also spoke on the occasion. Prizes of Jyoti Sangeet competition were also distributed during the programme.
