A Life Devoted to Writing and Academics: Dr. Karabi Deka Hazarika

Just as water and air are essential for survival, writing is an indispensable part of life for Dr. Karabi Deka Hazarika. At times, she has written under pressure, particularly when crafting books for students to fill gaps in available reading material. But beyond that, writing—whether poetry, novels, children’s literature, or songs—is something she does instinctively, a pursuit that brings her peace and fulfillment.

Dr. Hazarika is a renowned writer, lyricist, novelist, and distinguished educationist. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Centre for Studies in Performing Arts in 2008, significantly shaping performing arts as an academic discipline in Northeast India. The center was the first in the region to offer BA and MA programs in Music, Dance, and Theatre. She also pioneered the inclusion of traditional Assamese dance forms, particularly those practiced in Vaishnavite monasteries (Xatras) for over five centuries, in M.Phil. and Ph.D. curricula.

In this exclusive conversation, she reflects on her journey, inspirations, and contributions to literature and academia.

Q: Tell us about your early life and childhood experiences.

"I had a beautiful childhood, spent in Borjanat Naga Pahar, now part of Nagaland. My father, Dr. Minakanta Hazarika, was a doctor, and I grew up in a multicultural society of Assamese, Bengali, Nepali, Naga, Oriya, and tea garden communities. The breathtaking landscape—forests, mountains, and the Dikhow River flowing below our house—left an indelible mark on me. My deep love for nature is evident in my writings, especially in my novel Aranyar Shan, where the forest plays a central role.

My mother, originally from Guwahati, was the sister of eminent writer Atul Chandra Hazarika. She was also a gifted poet, and both she and my uncle greatly influenced my literary journey."

Q: How did your education shape your writing and academic career?

"After moving to Sivasagar, I completed my schooling there before pursuing higher studies at Gauhati University, where I completed my Ph.D. under the esteemed scholar Maheshwar Neog. It was during this time that I met my husband, Dr. Kandarpa Kumar Deka, who later served as the Vice-Chancellor of Dibrugarh University.

My professional journey in academia began when I was appointed as an Assistant Professor at Dibrugarh University. Over time, I was promoted to Associate Professor, then Professor, and later became the Lakshminath Bezbarooah Chair Professor. I also served as Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences and was entrusted with the charge of Vice-Chancellor for nearly 600 days. My life has revolved around students, and they have been my greatest source of joy."

Q: Your family has strong literary roots. Could you tell us more about them?

"I have two sons—Dr. Kaustav Deka, who is also a writer, and Krishanu Deka, who works in Mumbai. My daughter-in-law Dr. Kevi Tepa is an academic, and my younger daughter-in-law Nilankana is pursuing her Ph.D. in English. My granddaughter Keteki, though only a year and a half old, already brings immense happiness into our lives."

Q: When did you start writing? What inspired you?

"My passion for writing has been with me since childhood. At the age of 10, my first poem was published in Assam Bani, and my mother played a significant role in encouraging me. My uncle, Atul Chandra Hazarika, further nurtured my literary inclinations. Spending time at his home in Guwahati, surrounded by books and the aura of a writer’s life, deeply inspired me.

As I pursued my studies, I met many distinguished literary figures like Maheshwar Neog, Nabakanta Barua, and Homen Borgohain, who further fueled my passion. Writing, for me, is boundless—if time permits, I feel I can write endlessly."

Q: What does writing mean to you?

"I cannot imagine life without writing. While some of my works were written out of necessity—like my books for students—my poetry, novels, children’s literature, and songs come from my heart. Writing is my solace."

Q: Which genres do you enjoy writing the most?

"Poetry is my first love. It is as natural to me as breathing. Much like how people keep a diary, I write poems. I also enjoy writing children’s literature and regret not dedicating more time to it. My travelogues, however, have become particularly popular. I find immense joy in chronicling my experiences through words."

Q: You are also a lyricist. How did that journey begin?

"I began writing songs during my college years, and to my surprise, singers like Mihir Bordoloi performed my compositions on All India Radio (Akashvani). I realized the power of music and lyrics when I heard Nirmalprabha Bordoloi’s iconic song, Boroxa Ritu Bhal Pau Moi. That moment made me realize that songs, too, can convey profound emotions. Even today, I can write a song in a minute."

Q: You have contributed significantly to academia. What are some of your key achievements?

"My teaching career at Dibrugarh University spanned 42 years, an experience I cherish deeply. As a Ph.D. supervisor, I have guided 45 research scholars to their doctorate degrees and mentored numerous M.Phil. students.

In 2008, I became the founding director of the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Centre for Studies in Performing Arts. We introduced BA and MA courses in Dance, Drama, and Music, and later pioneered an M.A. in Xattriya Dance, a first-of-its-kind course in the world. Today, the centre has nurtured many talented artists, and I am now working to launch a Performing Arts program in Dibrugarh starting this August."

Q: What awards and recognitions have you received?

"I have been honored with several prestigious awards, including:

• Basanti Devi Award (Best Woman Writer of the Decade, Assam Sahitya Sabha)

• Best Woman Writer Award (All Assam Women Writers’ Association)

• Prabina Saikia Award

• Kabya Hridoy Award

• Kabya Ratna Award

I also served 10 years as the convenor of Sahitya Akademi."

Q: What are your current projects?

"I am currently translating Maheshwar Neog’s Ph.D. thesis, Shankardev and His Times, into Assamese. This research is crucial, as many misunderstand the historical and cultural contributions of Srimanta Shankardev. I am also working on my autobiography while continuing my regular columns for newspapers."

Q: What advice would you give to young writers?

"True devotion is key to success. Many young writers today seek instant fame without deep research. Poetry, though seemingly simple, is one of the most challenging forms of writing. I encourage new writers to read extensively—both Assamese literature and works from other regions—to refine their craft."

Q: Any message for readers?

"I urge readers to be aware and actively engage with literature. Your feedback, encouragement, and constructive criticism shape the future of literary work. Newspapers, too, must foster cultural harmony and present unbiased narratives. I wish The Sentinel continued success in its endeavors."

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