The 13th Dr Bhupen Hazarika Sanghati Award will be presented to noted Goalpariya folk song artiste Rahima Begum Kalita at a function organised in Golaghat on November 5, 2026.

• The award is organised by the All Golaghat District Students’ Union in association with the Dr Bhupen Hazarika Memorial Committee.

Key Highlights

• The award recognises Rahima Begum Kalita’s contribution to the preservation and promotion of Goalpariya folk music, an important musical tradition of western Assam.
• The award carries a cash prize of ₹20,000, a citation and other items.
• The programme will include a tribute to Dr Bhupen Hazarika and a Bhupendra Sangeet competition.
• The event aims to promote Assam’s cultural heritage and recognise individuals contributing to its preservation.

Understanding Goalpariya Folk Music

• Goalpariya folk music is a traditional musical form associated with the erstwhile Goalpara region of western Assam.
• It reflects the everyday lives, emotions, love, separation, nature and social experiences of local communities.
• Its musical traditions include the use of regional dialects, folk instruments and distinctive melodies.
• It is mainly sung by the Koch Rajbongshi and Deshi communities. 
• The songs are performed in the Goalpariya language and include subgenres like bhawaiya and chatka.
  • Bhawaiya is one of its well-known forms, often associated with themes of longing, separation and rural life.
• It features solo singing accompanied by the dotora instrument.

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

Goalpariya folk music represents the cultural diversity of Assam and forms an important part of the state’s intangible cultural heritage.

One-line wrap: The Dr Bhupen Hazarika Sanghati Award recognises artistic contributions that help preserve Assam’s rich musical traditions.