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Bhupen Hazarika
Bhupen Hazarika (8th September 1926 – 5th November 2011) was a prominent playback singer, lyricist, filmmaker, and poet from the northeastern state of Assam. He wrote and sang songs mainly in the Assamese language. The songs gained so much popularity that they were translated into Bengali and Hindi.
The singing talent of Hazarika was largely influenced by his mother who introduced him to Assamese music in his childhood. He made his first public appearance at the age of 10 at Tezpur, by singing “Borgeet”, a traditional devotional song of Assam taught by his mother.
It was in Tezpur, that his talent was discovered by two icons of Assamese culture – Jyoti Prasad Agarwala and Bishnu Prasad Rabha. The former was a noted lyricist while the latter was a revolutionary poet. Close association with the duo opened new opportunities for Hazarika and he started singing in Hindi cinema by the age of 12 and wrote his own song at 13.
During his complete career, Hazarika has made award-winning films and provided music to Assamese, Bengali and even Bangladeshi films. He also was a member of Legislative Assembly from Nauboicha constituency.
Bhupen Hazarika died of multiple organ failure on 5th November 2011, and posthumously was conferred with Bharat Ratna on 8th August 2019 for his outstanding contribution to Indian film and music industry.
Bharat Ratna Award
The highest civilian award of the Republic of India is known as BHARAT RATNA. It came into existence on 2nd January 1954. The award was in recognition of extraordinary performance in the field of literature, science, public services, and arts only. This award belongs to all people of India without any discrimination of sex, race, and age. Previously award belonged to only limited criteria but in December 2011 the criteria were changed to include all fields of human endeavour.
Maximum 3 nominees may be awarded per year and recommendations for the same are specially made by the PM to the President. A Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion in the shape of a peepal leaf are the only two things being given to the recipients; no money is granted with the award.
In the Indian order of precedence, the Bharat Ratna award comes in the seventh position. But Bharat Ratna recipients are constitutionally prohibited to use the award name as the title as per Article 18 of the Constitution of India.
Since 1954, 44 distinguished individuals have been awarded this prestigious and highest civilian award in the country.
Also read: List of all Bharat Ratna Awardees
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bhupen Hazarika
Bhupen Hazarika was an Indian singer, composer, lyricist, and filmmaker, known for his significant contributions to Indian music and culture.
Bhupen Hazarika is renowned for his soul-stirring songs that often addressed social issues, cultural heritage, and patriotism.
Bhupen Hazarika was born on September 8, 1926, in Assam, India. He belonged to a family deeply rooted in art and literature.
Bhupen Hazarika sang in various languages, including Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, and English, reflecting his diverse audience.
Some of his famous works include songs like Bistirno Parore, Ganga Behti Ho Kyun, and Manuhe Manuhar Babe.
Bhupen Hazarika was a cultural icon in Assam and played a pivotal role in promoting Assamese music and literature.
Yes, Bhupen Hazarika received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan and the Dada Saheb Phalke Award.
Bhupen Hazarika passed away on November 5, 2011, leaving behind a legacy of artistic excellence.
Apart from music, Bhupen Hazarika directed and composed music for several films, blending his musical prowess with storytelling.
Bhupen Hazarika's songs transcended boundaries, touching hearts and inspiring generations with messages of unity and humanity. Who is Bhupen Hazarika?
What is Bhupen Hazarika known for?
What is Bhupen Hazarika's background?
Which languages did Bhupen Hazarika sing in?
What were some of Bhupen Hazarika's notable works?
What was Bhupen Hazarika's role in the Assamese culture?
Did Bhupen Hazarika receive any awards?
When did Bhupen Hazarika pass away?
How did Bhupen Hazarika contribute to Indian cinema?
What is Bhupen Hazarika's impact on Indian society?
