The Department of Geography, Jagannath Barooah University, organised the first Harendra Nath Bora Memorial Lecture on 17th October, 2025, in fond memory of Late Harendra Nath Bora, the Founder Head of the Department of Geography of the then Jagannath Barooah College. The event began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tribute to Late Bora, honouring his pioneering contributions to the discipline.

The occasion commenced with a soulful rendition of the holy Nam-ghosa by Jonak Nath, the Best Singer of the University, creating an atmosphere of reverence. This was followed by the felicitation of the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jyoti Prasad Saikia, Chief Guest Prof. Abani Kumar Bhagawati, Registrar Dr. Utpal Jyoti Mahanta, Mrs. Anjali Bora (wife of Late H.N. Bora), Academic Registrar Dr. Surajit Sharma, and Dr. K.K. Gogoi, retired faculty of the Department.

Dr. Mrinal Nath, Head of the Department of Geography, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the vision and legacy of Late H.N. Bora. On this occasion, the ninth volume of the Department’s biennial journal, Bhogdoi, was also released by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor. The journal, which has now achieved the status of a peer-reviewed publication, is jointly edited by Sadiqur Rahman and Bijoy Chandra Ghosh.

Following a brief inaugural speech by the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Kamala Kanta Gogoi, former Head of the Department, offered an insightful introduction to the life and academic journey of Late Bora. The Chief Guest, Prof. Abani Kumar Bhagawati, was introduced by Shyamolee Sarmah, Assistant Professor of Geography. Prof. Bhagawati then delivered a thought-provoking memorial lecture on the topic “Nature–Culture Relation: Tradition, Change and Challenge.” His address, enriched with maps and visual illustrations, shed light on the evolving relationship between nature and culture in the context of contemporary environmental challenges.

During the event, Dr. Joyshankar Hazarika, Retired Principal of Darrang College and a former faculty member of J.B. College, was felicitated. He shared his cherished memories of working alongside Late H.N. Bora. Alumni member Montu Bordoloi also extended personal felicitations to the Chief Guest, Mrs. Anjali Bora, Dr. K.K. Gogoi, and Dr. Hazarika. In a heartfelt moment, Mrs. Anjali Bora shared her reflections and gratitude.

The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Gaurab Borthakur, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography. The event was anchored by Shyamolee Sarmah, and witnessed the gracious presence of invitees from neighbouring colleges including DCB Girls’ College, DKD College, NNS College, and Mariani College.

The inaugural Harendra Nath Bora Memorial Lecture successfully celebrated the academic spirit, legacy, and ideals of its founder, leaving an inspiring mark on all who attended.