GUWAHATI, Feb 16: The Assam State Film Awards ceremony for 2020 and 2021 was held at the Sri Sri Damodardeva International Auditorium on February 15, where Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya underscored the enduring cultural significance of Assamese cinema.
Addressing filmmakers, artists and dignitaries, the Governor described the event as a tribute to Assam’s artistic vitality and storytelling traditions. He said the state’s identity has long been preserved through language, folklore and literature, with cinema expanding their reach to wider audiences.
Paying homage to pioneers, he recalled the contribution of Jyotiprasad Agarwala, whose landmark film Joymati laid the foundation of the regional industry despite limited resources. The Governor noted that the film explored themes of sacrifice, history and women’s empowerment at a formative stage of cinematic expression in Assam.
He also remembered cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika, stating that his music conveyed messages of humanity and unity while earning national and international acclaim. Contemporary artiste Zubeen Garg was acknowledged for connecting younger audiences to their roots through modern music and film.
Referring to national initiatives under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the Governor said programmes such as Digital India, Startup India and Make in India have opened new avenues for regional creative industries, including filmmaking.
He described cinema as a powerful medium for social awareness, addressing issues such as justice, gender equality and environmental protection. Despite financial constraints, he observed, Assamese films have earned recognition at national and global platforms, particularly with the rise of digital distribution.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and nurturing emerging talent, the Governor said there is a clear roadmap to position Assam as a major film hub in the Northeast.
The ceremony was attended by Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Bora, MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, Additional Chief Secretary B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, and senior officials of the Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation Limited, among others.