
Sun Feb 08 13:14:12 UTC 2026: # Assam Celebrates Cultural Icons at Visva-Bharati University
The Story: A poetic event titled ‘Monkobita,’ organized by the Assam-based Raul Kaushik Nath Foundation, will honor the legacies of Bhupen Hazarika and Navakanta Barua at Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan on February 13, 2026. This sixth edition of the annual event coincides with the 100th birth anniversary of both Assamese cultural figures, aiming to celebrate their enduring impact on literature, music, and Assamese culture. The event is organized in partnership with Visva-Bharati University’s Department of Assamese and the Bhupen Hazarika Cultural Trust.
Key Points:
- The sixth edition of ‘Monkobita’ will be held on February 13, 2026, at Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan.
- The event celebrates the centennial of Bhupen Hazarika and Navakanta Barua.
- Bhupen Hazarika was a multifaceted artist known for his contributions as a singer, composer, filmmaker, lyricist, and poet.
- Navakanta Barua was a prominent poet, novelist, and scholar of Tagore.
- The event will feature both academic and cultural segments, including poetry recitation, songs, and dances.
- Monkobita is curated by Bipuljyoti Saikia and Nayan Prasad, in association with trustees of Raul Kaushik Nath Foundation including actor Adil Hussain, filmmaker Utpal Borpujari, media personality Kaushik Nath, and entrepreneur Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
Key Takeaways:
- ‘Monkobita’ serves as a significant platform for preserving and promoting Assamese literature and culture.
- The event highlights the enduring connection between Assam and West Bengal, particularly through the influence of Rabindranath Tagore and the artistic journey of Bhupen Hazarika.
- The Raul Kaushik Nath Foundation is actively involved in promoting various art forms and cultural activities in Assam through initiatives like Mongeet, Montulika, and others.