Tezpur University observed Commerce Day (celebrated in the memory of Saud Bholanath Borooah) commemorating the 173rd birth anniversary of Saud Bholanath Borooah through a discussion reflecting on his life, entrepreneurial vision, socio-economic contributions, and enduring legacy in Assam’s commercial history.
The programme was attended by distinguished academicians, industry leaders, and invited dignitaries, including Shri Mayur Bora, Writer, Critic and Public Speaker, Prof. Amarendra Kumar Das, Pro Vice Chancellor of Tezpur University; Padma Shri Ajay Dutta, Prof. R. M. Pant, Vice Chancellor of Assam University; Shri Krishna Kanta Borooah, notable publisher of Saud Bholanath Borooah: Jivan aru Kriti Dr. Panchanan Barman, Assistant Professor, Gauhati Commerce College, Dr. Mahendra Nath Keot, Former Head, Department of Commerce, Darrang College; Santanu Baruah, Asomiya Bhasa Unnati Sadhani Sabha; Binanda Bora, Asomiya Byabosayi Unnayan Parishad; Hemanta Lahkar, Director, Lahkar Udyog Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Uttam Kr. Baruah, Principal, Kaliabor College; Dr. Manoj Kr. Hazarika, Principal, Tezpur College; esteemed Heads of Commerce Departments from leading regional colleges; and several eminent guests.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Amarendra Kumar Das highlighted the immense contributions of Saud Bholanath Borooah in entrepreneurship and business. Reflecting on the evolving role of business leadership in the present economy, he urged the younger generations to become “job givers rather than job seekers.” Sharing his own experiences from the business world before entering academia, he noted that in many countries abroad, Vice Chancellors are referred to as CEOs, reflecting a more professional and managerial outlook in higher education.
Padma Shri Ajay Dutta described Saud Bholanath Borooah as a pioneer who mastered “the art of living and the art of giving.” He portrayed Borooah as a man of tremendous self-belief – a successful businessperson as well as a philanthropist who significantly contributed to healthcare and education through his investments and public initiatives.
Delivering the keynote address, Mayur Bora reflected on the historical relationship between Assamese society and commerce. He remarked that it is inspiring to see commerce consciousness gradually strengthening within the Assamese community. He mentioned that Bholanath Borooah was a disciplined, intelligent, and visionary, but he was also a smart businessperson.
Pointing to the phrase “Life begins at 40,” Bora noted that Barooah’s move to Kolkata at the age of 38 –following certain business setbacks- became the ultimate turning point in his life and journey towards becoming a leading businessperson. He also highlighted Borooah’s significance in advancing higher education in Assam through contributions to the establishment and support of several premier educational institutions. Bora referred to him as one of the tallest figures in Assam’s history and urged younger generations to draw inspiration from his entrepreneurial achievements and vision.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Panchanan Barman stressed the need for greater academic research on Borooah so that his immense contributions receive proper recognition.
During the programme, the Lifetime Achievement Award in the World of Commerce was conferred upon Dr. Mahendra Nath Keot, former Head of the Department of Commerce, Darrang College, in recognition of his significant contribution to commerce education.
Earlier, Prof. Subhrangshu Sekhar Sarkar, Dean, School of Management Sciences and Dhritabrata Jyoti Bharadwaz, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce welcomed the guests and reaffirmed the importance of engaging students with the history of commerce and entrepreneurship in Assam while encouraging informed discussions on business, economic development, and entrepreneurial practices.
