Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday mourned the death of legendary musician Bhupen Hazarika, who was emotionally attached with the state in its cultural evolution.
Chief Minister Nabam Tuki said that the news has come as a dampener and he is devoid of words to express the loss.
“In him we have lost an icon of the region and a great friend, philosopher and guide of Arunachal Pradesh,” he said in a message.
Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS) also expressed shock on the demise of Hazarika who had composed many songs reflecting the true natural beauty of the hilly state.
With his death, Arunachal has lost one of its greatest admirers, said APLS president Sahitya Akademy awardee YD Thongchi and general secretary Tokong Pertin.
Hazarika had produced, directed, and composed the music for the state’s first Hindi feature film in colour Meri Maa Mera Dharam in 1977. He also directed a colour documentary for the Arunachal Pradesh government on tribal folk songs and dances entitled For Whom The Sun Shines in 1974.
In 1977, the state government had awarded him a gold medal for his outstanding contribution towards tribal welfare, and upliftment of tribal culture through cinema and music.
His songs like the Siangor Galong (1961) and Tirap Himantor (1966) created an emotional bridge between the tribes of Arunachal and the people of Assam.
Arunachal’s own icon Bengia Hemata, who had arranged Hazarika’s visit to Itanagar when the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared Arunachal a union territory on January 20, 1972 to sing his self composed Hamara Arunachal, also deeply mourned his death. Hemata had sung the Nyishi version of the song which was recorded by HMV.
The All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union also condoled his demise. “AAPSU remembers his contribution in promoting culture and tradition of North East region at national level and his special love for the people of Arunachal,” it said.
Influenced by the unspoiled nature of Arunachal Pradesh (then NEFA) and its rich culture, Hazarika translated his feelings in most of his early songs – Hamara Arunachal, Budha Luit (Lohit), Tirap simanta rupar nai anta, man khoney khoney binay, Asom aamar rupahi gunarr nai sesh Bhrater purba deshar surjya ootha desh, Siangare Gallong Luitarey Khamti and Kata jawanar mritu haal (referring to 1962 Chinese aggression). (PTI)