The unyielding spirit of Manoj Kashyap
Prosenjit Chatterjee
(c.prosenjit08@gmail.com)
Music has the power to transcend all barriers, and when a voice like that of Manoj Kashyap graces the stage, it leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners. Popularly known as the ‘Voice of Kishore Kumar’ in Assam, Manoj Kashyap is a testament to the strength of passion and dedication in the face of adversity. Despite losing his vision due to a medical mishap, he has continued to pursue his love for music with unyielding determination.
A Journey of Passion and Dedication
He has been professionally performing on stage since 1985. With more than 39 years of dedicated musical journey, Manoj Kashyap spent several years in Mumbai, where he had the opportunity to collaborate with many renowned Bollywood composers and singers. His experience in the heart of the industry enriched his artistry, further shaping his unique musical identity.
However, life had other plans. An unfortunate health mishap led to the loss of his vision, a turning point that forced him to return to his home in Assam. With the hope that his return would bring him recognition from the music fraternity of Assam, he expected acceptance and support. Yet, reality painted a different picture—one of struggle and limited acknowledgement from the very community he thought would embrace him.
Beyond his visual impairment, Manoj Kashyap battles severe health issues, including three blockages in his heart and diabetes. For many, such hardships would be insurmountable, a reason to give up, but not for him. He is a born fighter, standing resilient in the face of adversity, continuing his pursuit of music with unwavering dedication and passion. Music became both his solace and his weapon, allowing him to forge ahead with an unbreakable spirit. His ability to memorise over 1,000 songs—ranging from Assamese and Bengali melodies to Bollywood classics—speaks volumes about his dedication and love for the art.
Deeply inspired by the legendary Jayanta Hazarika, Manoj regards him as his guru and effortlessly renders the maestro’s timeless compositions. Along with Hazarika’s songs, he also enthrals audiences with the music of other renowned Assamese and Bollywood singers. His voice has a captivating quality that mesmerises listeners and transports them to an era of musical nostalgia.
The Struggles and Silent Tears
Behind the applause and admiration, there lies an ocean of struggles that Manoj Kashyap has braved with silent resilience. Imagine standing on the grand stage, feeling the warmth of the spotlight, yet unable to see the sea of eager faces before you. Every performance is an act of faith, a leap into an unseen world where his voice alone must forge a connection with the audience.
The nights must have been long, filled with questions and despair. What does a man do when the world he once saw disappears into eternal darkness? For many, it would have been a reason to give up, to retreat into oblivion, but not for Manoj. He chose to listen—to the rhythms of life, to the melodies of hope, and to the unwavering support of those who believed in him. His music became his sight, guiding him through shadows and uncertainties.
A Cry for Recognition and Respect
One cannot help but wonder—how does Manoj feel when he hears of these grand events, knowing that his voice, once celebrated, is now an afterthought? It is often said that true talent is recognised and cherished, yet, despite his immense skill, Manoj is receiving fewer opportunities to perform on stage. This raises an important question—why is a seasoned and gifted singer like Manoj Kashyap being sidelined? Does he sit in silence, clutching the very microphone that once echoed his dreams? The pain of being overlooked, the heartbreak of fading into the background, is a sorrow that only true artistes understand.
It is not just about a singer losing opportunities; it is about the erosion of a cultural legacy. By neglecting artistes like Manoj Kashyap, are we not allowing a piece of our musical heritage to slip away? Are we, as a society, failing those who dedicate their lives to keeping our traditions alive?
A Call for Change
It is high time that event organizers, cultural committees, and music lovers took collective action. There must be a conscious effort to recognize and support such exceptional talents, ensuring that they receive the platform they rightfully deserve. By doing so, we not only honour the hard work of artists like Manoj Kashyap but also uphold the rich musical heritage of Assam.
A Moment of Recognition
amidst Neglect
Amidst this fading recognition, a ray of hope recently shone upon Manoj Kashyap. He was honoured with an award for “Best Singer” in the event of the 28th National Sports & Cultural Festival, which was held in Guwahati on 23rd February 2025—an accolade that came as a rare moment of appreciation in his long and arduous journey. Kudos to the committee that saw beyond the veil of indifference, recognized his unwavering dedication and has been watching him closely over the years, witnessing his every performance with admiration. Perhaps they saw what so many fail to notice—a man who has given his soul to music, a singer who breathes life into every lyric he utters. This is not just his story—it is the story of many gifted souls whose voices once soared but are now left unheard. Their melodies, once rich with passion, now echo in empty halls, drowned by the indifference of an industry that seems to have forgotten them. Manoj Kashyap is but one among many—a symbol of resilience, yet a victim of an unfortunate reality. His struggle is not his alone; it belongs to every artist whose talent is overshadowed, whose dedication is overlooked, and whose dreams slowly fade into silence. If we fail to recognize them today, what future do we offer to the music that defines our very culture?
Now, after knowing the real background of his untold story, if he still doesn’t get a platform to showcase his talent as a revival of his musical journey, then the loss is not his alone. It is the loss of so many listeners and music lovers who will miss the brilliance of a talented singer from their state. Manoj Kashyap’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and musical brilliance. Let us not allow such voices to fade into oblivion. Instead, let us celebrate them, provide them with the recognition they deserve, and ensure that their melodies continue to resonate in the hearts of music lovers for generations to come.