GUWAHATI: The Kolkata residence where legendary singer, composer and filmmaker Dr Bhupen Hazarika spent a significant part of his artistic journey may soon be considered for renovation and preservation, with senior Assam government officials visiting the historic property on Sunday, September 6.
ALSO READ: London Dreams? Death of Student in Guwahati's Khetri Initially Suspected as Murder, Police Now Probe Suicide
Additional Chief Secretary Kalyan Chakraborty, Director of Culture Rahul Chandra Das and other senior officials visited the Tollygunge residence, where Hazarika lived and composed some of his music during his years in Kolkata.
Speaking during the visit, Chakraborty said Hazarika’s legacy extended far beyond Assam and the Northeast, describing him as an icon whose influence reached audiences across India and beyond.
“This is a very important place associated with Bhupen Hazarika. I have come here to see the place and will take up the matter at the highest level so that we can explore how it can be renovated and preserved,” Chakraborty said.
He also highlighted Hazarika’s academic and artistic achievements, noting that his work was shaped by a deep understanding of art, cinema and theatre. Hazarika earned his doctorate from Columbia University.
According to Chakraborty, Hazarika used music as a medium to connect cultures and communities and to advocate for social equality. His compositions drew from diverse folk traditions and reached audiences in multiple languages, including Assamese, Bengali and Hindi.
Hazarika’s musical career also saw him collaborate and share associations with some of India’s most celebrated singers, including Lata Mangeshkar and Manna Dey.
Chakraborty further recalled Hazarika’s iconic song ‘Manuhe Manuhor Babe’, saying its message of humanity and collective responsibility continues to remain relevant. He said the song embodies the idea of people coming together to address social issues beyond barriers of caste and creed.
The Assam government official also expressed gratitude to the people of Kolkata for preserving Hazarika’s memory and said efforts should be made to ensure that his association with the city remains an enduring part of his legacy.
The visit was held as part of year-long commemorative events marking the birth centenary of Dr Bhupen Hazarika, whose music and cultural contributions continue to resonate across generations.