Assam declared Majuli as a separate district. The world’s largest river island become India’s first island district. The declaration ceremony coincided with the 90th birthday of legendary singer Bhupen Hazarika who pioneered in making the Vaishnavite cultural dance Sattriya as one of India’s classical dance form. Majuli became the 35th district of the state.
Bhupen Hazarika was the Chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi from 1998 to 2003.
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inspecting riverine problems. (Courtesy: PTI)
Assam’s Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the Office of Commissioner in the island district. The CM then chaired a cabinet meeting to discuss our development of the world’s largest river island.
Majuli is also known as Assam’s traditional capital and hub of Vaishnavite traditions.
In a report, Northeast Today quoted Sonowal saying, “It’s his birth anniversary and we wanted to start the district administrative work on a holy day and pay our respect and gratitude to Bhupen da,”
