Dara Ahmed's 80th Birth Anniversary Observed with Reverence in Nazira
The 80th birth anniversary of eminent Assamese film director and celebrated son of Nazira, Dara Ahmed, was observed with great reverence and enthusiasm on June 11. The commemorative programme was organized by the voluntary organization Agantuk, Sivasagar, in collaboration with M.C. Club, Nazira, at the club's auditorium.
The event was presided over by Agantuk president Jog Gogoi, while general secretary Dilip Saikia conducted the proceedings. Noted cultural activist Neelakshi Baruah formally inaugurated the programme.
Delivering the keynote address, distinguished Assamese poet, literary critic, academic and author Dr. Rajeev Bora highlighted Dara Ahmed's immense contribution to Assamese cinema. He described Ahmed as a filmmaker who possessed a profound understanding of the language of cinema and paid close attention to its technical and artistic dimensions.
"Ahmed did not make films merely for storytelling; he made films for the essence of cinema itself," Bora remarked. He further noted that the director consistently prioritized audience engagement and, through many of his works, artistically portrayed themes of social harmony alongside contemporary social issues.
Young speaker Arhi Chetia, in her address, reflected on the life and achievements of Dara Ahmed and described him as a source of pride for Nazira and Assamese society.
The cultural segment began with a rendition of the song "We Are in the Same Boat, Brother" under the guidance of music teacher Prabhat Konwar. Students including Daisy Priyam, Tanusha Priyam, Kasturi, Jyotishman, Arohan, Orchid, Anmeshika, Upasana and Bhaynila presented popular songs from films directed by Dara Ahmed, earning appreciation from the audience.
A short play based on Atul Chandra Hazarika's poem "Xesh Nohowa Xadhu" (The Endless Tale) was staged by 12 children under the direction of theatre artist Kumud Kalita. The performance was warmly received by the audience. Musical arrangements for the play were provided by young talents Dibya Darshan and Drishti Nandan.
At the outset of the programme, M.C. Club vice-president Shamsul Haque lit a ceremonial lamp in tribute to music maestro and cultural icon Dr. Bhupen Hazarika on the occasion of his birth centenary. Another lamp was lit in memory of Dara Ahmed by Prabhat Borthakur, president of the Sivasagar District Senior Citizens' Association. Both speakers shared their reflections on the enduring legacy of the two luminaries.
Among those present were M.C. Club president Zakirul Hussain, retired principal Syed Mubidul Islam, Dilip Phukan and several other distinguished guests, along with more than fifty participating children and their guardians. A vote of thanks was delivered by secretary Ranjit Phukan.
The programme concluded with a soulful rendition of the timeless song "Manuhe Manuhor Babe", bringing the commemorative event to a meaningful and emotional close.