Recognizing his determining contribution to Assamese music and culture, the government of Assam has honoured the renowned singer and lyricist Bhupen Hazarika with the Asam Ratna (Jewel of Assam) award on the eve of latter’s birthday on Monday.

The legendary artiste on Monday turned 83. The first ever Asam Ratna award contains a citation and cash of Rs 20 lakhs.

Speaking on this, Chief Minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi said, “The title is a gift from the people of Assam to the living legend Bhupen Hazarika for his invaluable contribution to the field of art, culture and social development.”

However, due to his illness, the Dadasaheb Phalke award winner celebrated his birthday quietly in Mumbai and could not receive the award on Monday.

Dr Bhupen Hazarika is very popular in the states of Assam and West Bengal. He is also very popular in the neighbouring Bangladesh. Besides Assamese, Hazarika has also sung in many other Indian languages, including Bengali and Hindi.