A multifaceted genius, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was a good poet, music composer, singer, actor, journalist, author and film-maker of the very highest repute. He was the only pioneer of Assamese film industry in the Northeast, and has been therefore, rightly hailed as the uncrowned king of North-Eastern India’s cultural world.
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, often referred to as the “Bard of Brahmaputra,” was a legendary Indian singer, composer, lyricist, poet, and filmmaker from Assam, celebrated for his unique voice, impactful lyrics, and contributions to Indian music and cinema. Born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam, Hazarika is remembered for blending traditional Assamese folk music with lyrics that addressed social and political themes, bringing the culture of northeastern India to a global audience.
Hazarika’s musical journey began at a young age. He recorded his first song at just 10 years old, which marked the start of a prolific career spanning more than seven decades. His music was deeply influenced by his exposure to Assamese folk tunes, as well as by his association with the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA), where he was mentored by the legendary poet and playwright Jyoti Prasad Agarwala.
Dr. Hazarika earned a doctorate in Mass Communication from Columbia University in New York, where he also met renowned civil rights activist Paul Robeson. Robeson’s ideals and music, especially the song “Ol’ Man River,” profoundly influenced Hazarika’s own musical creations, inspiring his lifelong commitment to social justice and his efforts to use music as a vehicle for activism and unity.
In his compositions, Hazarika often expressed themes of unity, justice, humanity, and cultural pride, creating timeless songs like “Bistirno Parore,” “Manuhe Manuhor Babe,” and “Ganga Amar Ma.” His lyrics resonated with the struggles and aspirations of common people and reflected his deep connection to the Brahmaputra River, which he saw as a symbol of strength and resilience. He also made substantial contributions to Indian cinema, producing and directing several Assamese films that brought regional stories to the forefront.
Throughout his life, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika received numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his unparalleled contributions to Indian music and cinema. In 2019, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika passed away on November 5, 2011, but his legacy lives on. He remains an inspirational figure, not only for his musical talents but also for his unwavering dedication to using art as a means to foster social awareness and harmony across diverse cultural landscapes. His songs continue to be celebrated across India, and he is revered as a cultural icon who bridged the gap between regional and mainstream Indian music, leaving an indelible impact on Indian arts and culture.
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