Guwahati, 31 March (H.S.)-On the birth anniversary of the iconic Bodo leader, the State Government reaffirms its commitment to student welfare and the preservation of Bodo cultural identity.
State-Wide Tributes on ‘Chatra Divas’
GUWAHATI, Assam — Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma led the state in paying heartfelt tributes to the legendary Bodo leader, Upendranath Brahma, on Tuesday, March 31. The day, observed across Assam as ‘Chatra Divas’ (Students’ Day), marks the birth anniversary of the visionary reformer popularly known as ‘Bodofa’ (Guardian of the Bodos). (With inputs from H.S.)
In a commemorative address, the Chief Minister highlighted Brahma’s lifelong dedication to safeguarding the distinct identity, language, and rights of the Bodo community. He described the leader as a “towering personality” whose sacrifices serve as a guiding force for the state’s youth. (With inputs from H.S.)
Recognizing the ‘Guardian of the Bodos’
The decision to designate March 31 as ‘Chatra Divas’ was a formal move by the Assam Government to institutionalize the legacy of Upendranath Brahma. As the former president of the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), Brahma is credited with transforming the Bodo movement into a non-violent, intellectually driven struggle for socio-political rights. (With inputs from H.S.)
Dr. Sarma emphasized that the observance is not merely a ritual but a mark of respect for a leader who rose from humble beginnings to advocate for education and tribal empowerment. (With inputs from H.S.)
“Bodofa Upendranath Brahma’s contributions to our social fabric are invaluable. His legacy will forever remain etched in the hearts of the people of Assam,” the Chief Minister stated.
Government Commitment to the Student Community
Extending warm greetings to students across the state, the Chief Minister reiterated the government’s focus on upholding the values espoused by Bodofa. Key highlights of the state’s tribute included:
- Educational Empowerment: Aligning with Brahma’s belief that “education is the greatest weapon,” the government highlighted ongoing schemes to support tribal students.
- Cultural Preservation: Affirming the commitment to protect the Bodo language and heritage, which were central to Brahma’s mission.
- Youth Inspiration: Encouraging the student community to adopt the principles of “live and let live” that Bodofa championed during his leadership. (With inputs from H.S.)
Historical Context and Legacy
Born in 1956 in Kokrajhar, Upendranath Brahma’s leadership in the late 1980s was pivotal in the Bodo community’s quest for self-determination. Despite his untimely passing in 1990 at the age of 34, his influence persists.
By declaring his birth anniversary as ‘Chatra Divas’, the Sarma-led administration aims to bridge communal gaps and foster a sense of shared Assamese history, emphasizing that the progress of the Bodo people is integral to the progress of the entire state. (With inputs from H.S.)
Future Outlook
As schools and colleges across Assam organized seminars and floral tributes to mark the day, the State Government signaled that future educational policies would continue to draw inspiration from Brahma’s vision of an inclusive and literate society. The legacy of ‘Bodofa’ continues to act as a bridge between the state’s diverse ethnic groups. (With inputs from H.S.)
Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Last Updated on: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 3:40 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 3:40 pm | News Categories: India
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