The 6th HNDB Memorial Lecture 2026, centred on 'Harinayaran Duttabaruah and the Emergence of Modernism in Assamese Literature,' was held on March 28 at Assam down town University, bringing together scholars, artists and cultural figures.
Organised by the HNDB Central Library, the event aimed to examine the evolution of Assamese literary modernism while reinforcing the institution’s commitment to academic and cultural discourse.
Key Highlights and Distinguished Participation
The programme was attended by Chief Guest Rahul Chandra Das, ACS, Director of Cultural Affairs, Assam, along with keynote speaker Dr Ananda Bormudoi, an eminent educationist and critic. Guests of Honour included Padma Shri awardee and Oja Pali artist Drona Bhuyan, Prabhat Haloi, and Padma Bhushan recipient Jatin Goswami, whose presence added stature to the occasion.
The event opened with an invocation and the university anthem, followed by an overview presented by Dr Rubi Goswami, Librarian of the HNDB Central Library. A Borgeet performance further enriched the cultural atmosphere before dignitaries were formally welcomed and the ceremonial lamp was lit.
Academic Deliberations and Cultural Milestones
Vice-Chancellor Prof. N.C. Talukdar delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of such platforms in fostering intellectual exchange. The keynote lecture by Dr Ananda Bormudoi explored the emergence of modernism in Assamese literature, focusing on the contributions of Harinayaran Duttabaruah.
The programme also marked the inauguration of a special archive of the HNDB Central Library through a video presentation by Jatin Goswami. Additionally, a book titled “Harinayan: The Renaissance Man” was formally released, adding academic value to the event.
Conclusion and Institutional Significance
The lecture concluded with a formal vote of thanks, followed by the State Anthem and a group photograph. A luncheon was hosted for attendees thereafter.
The 6th HNDB Memorial Lecture underscored a blend of scholarship and cultural heritage, reaffirming Assam down town University’s focus on promoting Assamese literature and sustaining meaningful academic engagement.
Assam Down Town University Hosts Pharma Anveshan 2026 for Northeast