Dr. Bhupen Hazarika (1926–2011) was an iconic Indian singer, lyricist, musician, poet, filmmaker, and cultural icon from Assam. Often referred to as the “Bard of the Brahmaputra,” he played a crucial role in popularizing Assamese culture on both the national and international stages. His works bridged traditional folk music with contemporary sounds, carrying strong social, political, and humanist messages. Here’s a brief biography
Early Life
- Birth: Bhupen Hazarika was born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam.
- Family: He was the eldest of 10 children in a family steeped in Assamese culture.
- Education: Hazarika completed his BA from Cotton College, Guwahati, and earned his MA in Political Science from Banaras Hindu University (BHU). He later studied Mass Communication at Columbia University in New York, where he met influential figures like Paul Robeson, whose music deeply inspired him.
Career
- Music: Dr. Hazarika began composing songs in his teens. His songs often reflected themes of love, social justice, unity, and human rights. His notable compositions include “Manuhe Manuhar Babe”, “Bistirno Parore”, and “Ganga Amar Ma”.
- Cinema: He contributed significantly to Assamese cinema as a lyricist, music director, and filmmaker. His films, such as Shakuntala, Pratidhwani, and Loti Ghoti, were widely acclaimed.
- Politics and Activism: Beyond art, he was a cultural and political activist. His work often addressed issues like caste oppression, exploitation, and inequality.
Achievements
- Awards and Honors:
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1992): India’s highest honor in cinema.
- Padma Bhushan (2001): For his contribution to the arts.
- Padma Vibhushan (Posthumously in 2012).
- Bharat Ratna (Posthumously in 2019): India’s highest civilian award.
- Cultural Ambassador: Hazarika’s music resonated globally, especially his adaptations of global music into Assamese, such as Paul Robeson’s “Ol’ Man River” (adapted as “Bistirno Parore”).
Personal Life
- Marriage: He was married to Priyamvada Patel, with whom he had a son, Tez Hazarika.
- Close Associations: Hazarika shared a creative and personal bond with filmmaker Kalpana Lajmi, who collaborated with him on various projects.
Legacy
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika passed away on November 5, 2011, in Mumbai. His legacy endures through his timeless music, poetry, and films. The Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Setu, India’s longest bridge connecting Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, is named in his honor, symbolizing his role as a bridge between cultures and communities.
Let me know if you’d like more details about any specific aspect of his life!
