Guwahati, Oct 18: The 126th birth anniversary of Singhapurush Radha Govinda Baruah, one of the architects of modern Assam, was observed across the State on Saturday, with people remembering his immense contributions to journalism, sports, culture and civic life.
At Dighalipukhuri paar, a gathering assembled near Baruah’s life-size statue to pay floral tributes and recall his legacy. Ritu Baruah, one of the directors of The Assam Tribune Group, and RG Baruah’s great-granddaughter Ragini Baruah were among those present.
The programme was organised by the RG Baruah Smriti Rakhya Committee.
Addressing the gathering, Balendra Mohan Chakraborty of the committee said Baruah’s legacy and work ethic should continue to inspire generations.
“His ideals, values and commitment to building a better society must guide today’s generation. Baruah was one of the builders of modern Assam, and his contributions should continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
Born in Sivasagar in 1900, Baruah founded The Assam Tribune in 1939, laying the foundation for what grew into one of the State’s leading newspapers.
He later expanded the publication to include the Assamese weekly Asom Bani and the Assamese daily Dainik Asam.
Baruah also served as the first Mayor of Guwahati and played a key role in shaping the city’s civic infrastructure.
A pioneer in sports promotion, he was instrumental in the construction of Nehru Stadium in Guwahati and founded the Assam Flying Club in 1958 to introduce aviation training in the State.
His contributions extended to cultural life, including efforts to bring Bihu dance from rural fields to the stage, helping it gain a wider platform.
His legacy remains closely associated with the growth of journalism, sports and the development of modern Assam.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also remembered Baruah and offered his respects.
“On the Jayanti of Singhapurush Radha Govinda Baruah, I pay my respectful tributes to a visionary who dedicated his life to shaping Assam’s sporting, cultural and media landscape. His immense contribution to Assam will always be remembered with gratitude,” he posted on ‘X’.