RBI to Issue ₹100 Commemorative Coin for Bhupen Hazarika’s Birth Centenary

On September 13, 2025, Reserves Bank of India (RBI) will release a commemorative coin with denominations of ₹100 to celebrate the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, in Guwahati. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will present the coin in a mass gathering event with a detailed profile of the cultural icon being published as well. It is introduced as part of a one-year centenary (Sept 20252026) with events in India. It has plans of a memorial site, a museum in Guwahati and cultural tributes during Bihu festivals. The themes of unity, justice and human dignity are still made to flourish through the legacy of Hazarika as a musician, poet and social reformers.

Key Points in Detail

Background and Context

• Bhupen Hazarika (19261911): Famous Assamese singer, poet, motion picture film-maker and cultural reformist.

• Reputed to mix folk music with universal humanism.

• Bharat Ratna was posthumously conferred in 2019.

• The centenary events begin 8th Sept 2025, and end 8th Sept 2026.

The Coin and Launch Event

• RBI to release 100 rupees commemorative coin.

• Introduction on 13 th September 2025 at Veterinary College Ground, Khanapara, Guwahati.

• PM Modi to unveil the coin.

• Publication of a biography by Assam Publication Board, which is to be translated into several languages.

Centenary Observances last year.

• Activities will take place in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya.

• Final event in Sept 2026 with the presence of the President of India.

Cultural Legacy and Projects.

• Bhupen Hazarika Memorial place (Jalukbari) to be renamed Bhupen Hazarika Samannay Tirtha.

• Guwahati Dedicated museum Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra.

• Bihu committees asked people to devote a night to his vision.

Significance

• Coins and celebrations confirm the activity of Hazarika as a symbol of harmony and social justice.

• Empowers cultural pride in Assam and disseminates his message in the country.

• Knows his contribution to Indian music, literature, and human values.

Conclusion

The release of the 100 commemorative coins by RBI and the decade long centennial events indicate the importance of Bhupen Hazarika as a culture bridge-maker and social philosopher. The tribute, more than honouring an artist, strengthens the national acknowledgment of music and literature as unifiers of national integrity, dignity and justice.