The legendary musician, Bhupen Hazarika also known as the ‘Bard of Brahmaputra’ was born on September 8, 1926, in Tinsukia district, Assam. The famous song ‘Dil Hoom Hoom Kare’ is still enjoyed by the colossal fans of Hazarika. An inspiration to many young musicians of the state, he was an intellect that created waves in the political scenario with his songs and is loved by all.
Early Life:
Bhupen Hazarika was born on 8 September 1926 in Sadiya, Assam. His father was Nilkanta Hazarika and Mother was Shantipriya Hazarika. He was the eldest son of their ten children. He had completed his early education from Sonaram High School in Guwahati, Dhubri and 1940, he had completed his matriculation from Tezpur High School.
A child prodigy, Hazarika wrote his first song at 13. His talent was spotted by noted Assamese lyricist Jyotiprasad Agarwala and artist Bishnu Prasad Rabha.
Career and Major Works:
Bhupen Hazarika was much influenced by tribal music. He once told news agency PTI that his inclination towards singing was developed because as child, he grew up listening to tribal music.
His most famous Hindi films include his long-time companion Kalpana Lajmi’s Rudaali, Ek Pal, Darmiyaan, Daman and Kyon, Sai Paranjpe’s Papiha and Saaz, Mil Gayee Manzil Mujhe and M F Husain’s Gajagamini.
The Bard of Brahmaputra made several award-winning films like ‘Shakuntala Sur’, Pratidhwani. His directorial ventures include ‘Lati-Ghati’, ‘Chik Mik Bijuli’, ‘For Whom the Sun Shines’ and ‘Mera Dharam Meri Maa’. He had also composed songs and music for several Assamese and Bangla movies including ‘Aarop’, ‘Chameli Memsaab’, and ‘Shimana Perye’.
Awards and Honours:
Hazarika was admired for his suave attitude throughout his life and for the songs that left a deep impression in the hearts of countless people. He was honoured with National Award, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and above all, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously this year, which is the highest civilian award of India.
He was also a member of Assam Film Development Council and the Central Board of Film Certification. In 2003, he was appointed member of the Prasar Bharati Board.
Bhupen Hazarika died in 2011 at the age of 85.
