Guwahati, Sept. 13 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to legendary singer and Bharat Ratna recipient Bhupen Hazarika during his birth centenary celebrations in Guwahati and said Bhupen Da kept giving voice to the unity of India even during the difficult times when North East was "left to burn in the fire of violence and separatism."

Hailing Bhupen Hazarika as a great champion of India's unity and integrity, the Prime Minister stressed that the government is working to realise his dreams of a prosperous North-East.

"Bhupen Da (elder brother) was a great champion of India's unity and integrity. Decades ago, when the North East was a victim of neglect, the North East was left to burn in the fire of violence and separa...