Dr. Bhupen Hazarika - legendary icon of Assam
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was a multifaceted personality known for his contributions to Indian music, cinema, literature, and social activism. Here's a comprehensive biography covering his life from birth to death:
Early Life:
- Birth: Bhupen Hazarika was born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, a town in the northeastern Indian state of Assam.
- Family Background: He was born into a family of teachers and intellectuals. His father, Nilakanta Hazarika, was a teacher, and his mother, Shantipriya Hazarika, was a poet and writer.
Education:
- Schooling: Hazarika received his early education in Sadiya and then moved to Dhubri in Assam for his schooling.
- University Education: He pursued his higher education at Banaras Hindu University and later earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Cotton College in Guwahati, Assam.
- Doctorate: He obtained a PhD in Mass Communication from Columbia University, New York, USA.
Career:
- Music: Bhupen Hazarika's musical journey began at an early age. He composed his first song at the age of 10 and wrote his first lyrics at 13.
- Playback Singing: He began his playback singing career in the 1930s, and his songs were deeply rooted in the folk traditions of Assam. He sang in various languages, including Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, and more.
- Composer: Hazarika composed music for numerous Assamese and Indian films, earning accolades for his soulful compositions.
- Film Director: He directed and produced several acclaimed Assamese films, including "Shakuntala" and "Pratidhwani."
- Social Activism: Throughout his life, Hazarika remained deeply involved in social and political causes, using his music as a tool for social change. He addressed issues such as poverty, injustice, and cultural identity through his songs and activism.
Legacy:
- Cultural Icon: Bhupen Hazarika is considered one of the greatest cultural icons of Assam and India. His contributions to music and cinema have left an indelible mark on Indian culture.
- Awards and Recognition: He received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, two of India's highest civilian honors. He was also awarded the Dada Saheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.
- Global Recognition: Hazarika's music transcended borders, earning him fans worldwide. He performed in many countries and was appreciated for his unique blend of folk and contemporary music.
Later Life and Death:
- Later Years: In his later years, Bhupen Hazarika continued to be active in music, literature, and social work. He remained a prominent voice in Indian cultural and political discourse.
- Death: Dr. Bhupen Hazarika passed away on November 5, 2011, at the age of 85, leaving behind a rich legacy of music, literature, and social activism.
Bhupen Hazarika's life exemplifies the power of art in fostering social change and promoting cultural understanding. His timeless songs continue to inspire and resonate with audiences across generations.
