Assam: BTR honours visionary leader Rupnath Brahma on 124th birth anniversary

The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government, on June 15, commemorated the 124th birth anniversary of Assam’s first tribal Cabinet Minister and the visionary architect of modern Kokrajhar, Rupnath Brahma with a series of events.
 

A towering figure in Assam’s history, Rupnath Brahma was not only a political pioneer but also the first law graduate from the tribal community of the state. 

He was a poet, a literary luminary, and a passionate advocate for social reform. Born on June 15, 1902, in Owabari, Kokrajhar, his contributions continue to resonate across generations.

The day-long observance began with the inauguration of a newly constructed memorial at his birthplace in Owabari. The memorial was formally unveiled by BTR Chief Executive Member (CEM) Pramod Boro, in the presence of Brahma’s son Manjit Rup Vikram Brahma, family members, and a large gathering of well-wishers and local residents.

Later in the day a bronze statue of Rupnath Brahma, newly erected at Pragati Bhawan in Kokrajhar town, was also unveiled by CEM Pramod Boro. The statue stands as a symbol of respect and remembrance for a leader who played a foundational role in shaping the socio-political identity of the Bodo community and beyond.

Speaking on the occasion, CEM Pramod Boro highlighted Brahma’s enduring legacy, calling him a “beacon of knowledge, leadership, and cultural pride” for the people of Assam. He emphasized the need to carry forward the values and vision championed by the late leader.

Rupnath Brahma passed away on January 23, 1968, but his contributions to tribal rights, education, literature, and public service remain etched in the collective memory of Assam and the BTR.