Context

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has launched “Bistirna Parore: A Musical Voyage from Sadiya to Dhubri” on the Brahmaputra to mark the birth centenary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

• The voyage was flagged off from Guijan (Dibrugarh) under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

• It has been conceptualised as a cultural tribute to the legendary singer.

About “Bistirna Parore”

• “Bistirna Parore” is one of the most iconic Assamese songs composed and sung by Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

• Written in 1969, the song is a poetic conversation with the Brahmaputra, portraying the river as a silent witness to Assam’s pain, struggles, and aspirations.

• It is recognised as the recontextualisation of Paul Robeson’s “Ol’ Man River” from an Indian perspective.

Purpose of the Voyage

• To honour the timeless spirit of Dr. Hazarika’s music as “voices of humanity, unity, and justice.”

• To retrace Bhupen Hazarika’s footsteps along the Brahmaputra, weaving through communities that inspired his works.

• To carry forward his message downstream—like the river itself—capturing the joys and sorrows of life along the Brahmaputra.

National Water Ways

Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements about “Bistirna Parore: A Musical Voyage”:

1. It was launched by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to mark the birth centenary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

2. The voyage was flagged off from Guijan (Dibrugarh) on the Brahmaputra.

3. “Bistirna Parore” is an Assamese song written by Dr. Bhupen Hazarika in 1969 and is a recontextualisation of Robeson’s “Ol’ Man River.”

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D