Guwahati, Jan 4 : A solemn and heartfelt memorial event was held today at Surjya Club, Cenikuthi here to commemorate the life and legacy of renowned filmmaker and scriptwriter Bhaskar Jyoti Das, who passed away on December 26 last at the age of 51 after a courageous battle with cancer.
The event featured a special screening of his acclaimed documentary ‘An Unknown Summer’, a competition entry at the 2024 International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala.
The screening was followed by emotional tributes from close friends, collaborators, and admirers who gathered to reflect on the indelible mark Das left on Assamese cinema and the broader world of storytelling.
Aparna Sarma, Professor at the University College of Los Angeles, who collaborated with Bhaskar Jyoti Das on several academic documentaries focusing on Assam and Northeast India, described him as a creative genius. She expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging that it would take time to fully process and accept his absence.
National award-winning filmmaker Supriya Sen shared her memories of Das through a poignant audio message, praising his passion for filmmaking and his distinctive approach to storytelling.
Jaicheng Jai Dohutia, director of the national award-winning film ‘Haanduk’, paid a heartfelt tribute through an audio message, recalling his enduring friendship with Das and recognizing him as a mentor who deeply influenced his creative journey.
Das’s role as a mentor extended beyond Dohutia, inspiring many young filmmakers from the region.
National award-winning filmmaker and critic Utpal Borpujari reflected on Das’s significant contributions to nurturing cinematic talent. He highlighted Das’s involvement in organizing the ‘Cinema Within We’ film workshop series across Assam alongside Dohutia.
Filmmaker Boby Sarma Baruah remembered Das’s invaluable role as the scriptwriter for her acclaimed film ‘Sonar Baran Pakhi’, underscoring his lasting impact on Assamese cinema.
The event was also attended by filmmaker Sanjeev Hazarika, theatre personality Nayan Prasad and Jahanara Begum, critic and journalist Bitopan Borbora, Munindra Bayan, close associates of the late filmmaker editor Diganta Bora, filmmaker Orebam Dorendra, producer Samiran Deka etc.
Das, originally from Tangla, left dental education to pursue his passion for cinema, becoming one of Assam’s most respected storytellers. His filmography includes award-winning scripts for ‘Haanduk’, ‘Sonar Baran Pakhi’, and ‘Bokul Phulor Dore’.
He co-directed and produced the feature film ‘Antardhan’ and collaborated on thought-provoking documentaries such as ‘Where Is My Home’ and ‘I Don’t Want to be Born Again for Poem’. His experimental feature film ‘Xadhukatha’, produced by Samiran Deka, remains in post-production and is eagerly anticipated.
The event was a poignant reminder of Bhaskar Jyoti Das’s remarkable contributions to Assamese cinema, his fearless exploration of human stories, and his passion for portraying the rich cultural tapestry of Northeast India. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and storytellers.