GUWAHATI: Veteran folk singer from Dibrugarh, Ramchandra Sasoni, has been honored with the prestigious ‘Assam Gaurav Award’ by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya in Guwahati on Thursday. The Assam government has recognized his lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the tea tribe community through music.
Ramchandra Sasoni was born in Sepon Tea Estate, Dibrugarh, on 27th February, 1950, and developed a deep connection with folk music from an early age.
Despite financial challenges, he pursued academics with distinction before beginning his professional career in 1970 at the Dibrugarh Sub-Divisional Office of the Assam Tea Plantations Provident Fund Scheme.
His musical journey saw a significant breakthrough in 1973 when he performed in the film Ratanlal, produced by the Assam Tea Workers’ Association. In 1975, he joined All India Radio (AIR) Dibrugarh as a temporary announcer for tea workers’ programs, where he played a crucial role in broadcasting plays, musical features, and commentaries.
Emphasizing the importance of preserving the authenticity of Jhumur songs, he urged, “The traditional essence of Jhumur songs should not be distorted. Everyone should ensure that the poetic beauty of Jhumur remains intact.” The Assam Gaurav Award is Assam’s third-highest civilian honor, which carries a monetary reward of Rs. 3 lakhs.
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