All India Radio (AIR) Guwahati, like most of the radio stations of the country during the pre-television or even during the pre-satellite television days, was the epicentre of cultural activities.

There is no denying the fact that AIR Guwahati, which came into being on July 1, 1948, was the most glamorous platform for almost all the top-level singers and actors of Assam, including Phani Sarma and Bhupen Hazarika.

Before being shifted to the permanent complex in Navagiri hillock in Chandmari after a couple of years of its inception, the glorious history of the AIR Guwahati began in its temporary studio near the Planetarium in Uzan Bazar.

The fact that the cultural fraternity of Guwahati still shares a deep emotional bond with AIR Guwahati, was clearly depicted at the celebration of its 61st anniversary on July 1 at Rabindra Bhawan.

The colourful function held on the occasion was marked by enchantment and nostalgia among all the leading performers of the city both in the field of music and drama.

Compered by broadcaster Aboni Bora, the programme comprised three chapters: reminiscence, song and other performances.

After a few heartfelt speeches, talented singer Manjyotsna Mahanta brought in a musical flavour to the entire ambience with the presentation of two enchanting numbers: Jiyaa Shile Kothaa Kole... and Baarishaar Boroshun.

Both the numbers were strong lyrical compositions and the singer left no stone unturned to unfurl the inner essence with her superior skill. Her control over melody and rhythm in her rendition of both tracks deserves special mention.

Kaushtabhmoni Saikia, Bonti Borpujary and Rituparna Das presented a satirical feature titled Rong Chora. The basic theme of the piece, written by Saikia, was to create awareness about conservation.

All the three artistes, creating praiseworthy comic moments, presented a gripping performance.

It was followed by Anupjyoti Choudhury’s impressive recitation of the dialogues of the character Ravana form the play, Rakshakumar, written by his illustrious father Lakshyadhar Choudhury.

Finally, the evening came to an end with singer Pulak Banerjee presenting his immortal number — Paar Hoi Gol Dhumuhaa Ejaak.... It was indeed a rare treat for the audience as Banerjee sang this song live on stage after a long gap.

In the reminiscence chapter, singer-musician Birendra Nath Dutta, educationist Sapon Duwara, actress and film director Santwana Bordoloi and singer-composer Ramen Barua narrated their ties with AIR Guwahati and highlighted its significance in the socio-cultural development of the greater Assamese nationality.