Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was an Indian singer, musician, poet, and filmmaker who was widely regarded as one of the greatest cultural icons of the Indian subcontinent. Born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam, Dr. Hazarika went on to make significant contributions to the fields of music, literature, and cinema over a career spanning more than six decades.
Dr. Hazarika was born into a family of intellectuals and musicians. His father, Nilakanta Hazarika, was a well-known teacher, writer, and poet, while his mother, Shantipriya Hazarika, was a singer. Growing up in this environment, Dr. Hazarika developed an early interest in music and poetry, and began writing his own songs at a young ag
Dr. Hazarika's early education was in Assam, where he attended school in Guwahati and later studied at Cotton College. He then went on to study at Banaras Hindu University, where he received a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in Mass Communicatio
After completing his studies, Dr. Hazarika began his career as a singer and songwriter. His early works were heavily influenced by the folk music of Assam, and he quickly gained popularity for his unique style and soulful voice. Some of his most popular early songs include "Bistirno Parore" and "Manuhe Manuhar Babe
In the 1950s, Dr. Hazarika moved to Mumbai to pursue a career in the film industry. He quickly established himself as a talented composer and songwriter, and went on to work on many successful Bollywood films. Some of his most popular film songs include "Dil Hoom Hoom Kare" from the film Rudaali and "Ganga Amar Ma Padma Amar Ma" from the film Sanga
Throughout his career, Dr. Hazarika remained committed to promoting the culture and traditions of Assam and the northeast region of India. He wrote many songs and poems that celebrated the natural beauty and diversity of the region, and he often incorporated traditional instruments and musical styles into his composition
In addition to his music career, Dr. Hazarika was also a prolific writer and filmmaker. He wrote and directed several acclaimed films, including "Shakuntala," "Pratidhwani," and "Loti Ghoti." His films often explored social issues and themes related to identity, culture, and traditio
Dr. Hazarika was also a well-known activist and social reformer. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of indigenous communities in Assam and the northeast, and he used his music and art to raise awareness about social issues and promote social justic
In recognition of his many contributions to Indian culture and society, Dr. Hazarika received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1977, the Padma Bhushan in 2001, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2012, which is the second-highest civilian award in India. He was also awarded the National Film Award for Best Music Direction for the film "Chameli Memsaab" in 197
Dr. Hazarika passed away on November 5, 2011, at the age of 85. His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists, musicians, and social activists across India and the world. Today, he is remembered as one of the greatest cultural icons of the Indian subcontinent, and his contributions to the fields of music, literature, and cinema continue to be celebrated and cherished by people of all ages and background.
