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TEZPUR: On the occasion of "Silpi Divas," observed in the fond memory of Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala on his death anniversary, a daylong programme was organized at Jyoti Bharati (Poki), Tezpur, under the aegis of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam.
The programme began with a tribute ceremony in the morning. MLA of Tezpur LAC Prithiraj Rava, accompanied by District Commissioner Ankur Bharali and Aparup Agarwala, nephew of Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, inaugurated the ceremony by lighting the tribute lamp and offering floral tributes at the artist's statue in Poki.
Speaking on the occasion, Rava referred to Jyoti Prasad Agarwala as one of the architects of modern Assam. He reminisced about Rupkonwar's contributions to Assamese cinema as the director and producer of the first Assamese film, Joymoti, released in 1935. Rava also shared anecdotes highlighting the close bond between Jyoti Prasad Agarwala and Bishnu Prasad Rava. He emphasized that the works of Jyoti Prasad Agarwala not only connect us to our past but also inspire a vision for the future.
District Commissioner Ankur Bharali paid his respects to the legendary polymath. He expressed that it was a privilege to observe this revered day at Poki, the home of Jyoti Prasad Agarwala. DC Bharali remarked that while culture is dynamic, not static, it is imperative to revive and remember the contributions of luminaries like Rupkonwar for a richer cultural future. He also commended the younger generation for keeping the works of the legendary artist alive in the digital age.
The tribute ceremony included a medley of famous songs by Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, arranged by Jyoti Bharati official Alimpon Choudhury, a dance performance on the song "gose gose," and a song performance by invited singer Indranee Gogoi. It also featured the felicitation of Bakul Bon Awardee musician Mridul Kumar Das, poetry recitation by Rubi Bora Santra, and a dramatic performance by Barxik Silpi Sanman 2024-25 awardee artiste Tarulata Das, among other programmes.
Cultural Development Officer, Tezpur, Saurav Pani Phukan, along with several dignitaries from the fields of culture and literature, attended the ceremony. The daylong program also included a cultural event dedicated to the great artist in the evening.
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