Bhavartha Swarup Memorial Symposium : Book Release, Awards Announcement, Talks on Climate Action

Bhavartha Swarup Memorial Symposium: Book Release, Awards Announcement, Talks on Climate Action

KAKALI DAS

On May 17th, 2025, Mahabahu, in collaboration with the Multicultural Educational Development Trust and the Peoples Secretariat for Climate Justice, organised the “Bhavartha Swarup Memorial Symposium” at Suren Das College, Hajo, Assam.

The event marked a significant milestone that combined a book release, award announcement, and a series of enlightening talks focused on climate change awareness and youth empowerment.

The symposium was graced by an array of distinguished personalities, including Mr. Anjan Sarma (Editor, Mahabahu), Mr. Hemen Das (IAS – Retd, Former Principal Secretary, Assam Legislative Assembly), Ms. Namita Choudhury (Asst Professor, Bhattadev University), Dr. Hiranya Kumar Sarma (Principal, Suren Das College), Mr. Rituraj Phukan (Global Climate Activist & Climate Editor, Mahabahu), Ms. Kakali Das (Assistant Editor, Mahabahu), Padmaza Talukdar (Researcher, TERI-SAS & Consultant Researcher, Mahabahu), and Kaustabh Baruah (Researcher, University of St. Andrews, Scotland & Consultant Researcher, Mahabahu). Faculty members and students of Suren Das College participated with great enthusiasm.

Mr. Biswajit Kalita, Assistant Professor at Suren Das College, ably hosted the proceedings, ensuring a smooth and engaging flow of events.

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The programme began with a solemn candle-lighting ceremony in memory of Late Bhavartha Swarup, a gifted and compassionate young soul whose untimely demise at the age of 19 left an indelible void. In honour of his legacy, Mahabahu instituted the Bhavartha Swarup Memorial Mahabahu Award in 2023, an initiative generously supported by his parents, Mr. Hemen Das and Ms. Namita Choudhury.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Hiranya Kumar Sarma, Principal of Suren Das College, delivered a warm address reflecting his close association with the members of Mahabahu and the purpose of the gathering. His words set the tone for an emotionally charged yet forward-looking event.

Mr. Anjan Sarma, in his address, recalled the gentle spirit and remarkable talent of Bhavartha, capturing the hearts of all present. His tribute to the young boy was not just a remembrance but a call to carry forward his legacy through meaningful social action and intellectual contribution.

Mr. Hemen Das announced the winners of the International Mahabahu Writing Competition, an initiative under the award programme, and expressed his heartfelt emotions on the occasion. The certificates for the top three winners – Rudrani Garg, Disha Raut, and Moshood Farhan Jimba – were ceremoniously released, celebrating their outstanding contributions from a large and diverse pool of entries received globally.

A significant highlight of the event was the release of the book titled “Echoes of Earth” – an ISBN publication compiled and edited by Kakali Das, Assistant Editor of Mahabahu. The book is a curated anthology of 15 impactful articles shortlisted from the International Writing Competition and reflects the diverse voices and urgent concerns of contemporary climate discourse. The dignitaries present unveiled the book, marking a pivotal moment in the event.

Following the launch, an inspiring keynote address was delivered by Mr. Rituraj Phukan, Founder of the Indigenous Peoples Climate Justice Forum and a noted global climate activist. His talk, titled “Climate Crisis & Solutions”, drew from his extensive experience and personal journey in climate advocacy. He emphasized the escalating threat of climate change, underlining the need for urgent global and grassroots actions.

Padmaza Talukdar shared valuable insights from her field research, focusing on the adaptive strategies employed by local communities in response to climate change. Her narrative highlighted the intrinsic link between nature and livelihood and the traditional wisdom embedded in community practices.

Kakali Das, in her talk, recounted her experience as a media delegate at the UNFCCC COP28 held in Dubai. She spoke passionately about the role of youth, the power of communication, and the critical importance of integrating climate education into academic curricula. Her speech resonated with educators and students alike.

Kaustabh Baruah presented a compelling perspective on the dynamics of urban spaces and human-animal interactions, with a specific focus on human-monkey relationships in Assam. His research emphasized the need for empathy, coexistence, and innovative urban planning.

The symposium concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Mr. Debanan Das, Trustee of MEDT, who expressed his appreciation to the organisers and his joy at being a part of such a meaningful event.

The Bhavartha Swarup Memorial Mahabahu Symposium 2025 was not just a commemorative occasion; it was a convergence of purpose, emotion, and vision. It reinforced Mahabahu’s commitment to climate justice, youth engagement, and intellectual empowerment.

18-05-2025

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