Amjad Ali Khan Launches Book On The Bard, Bhupen Hazarika

NEW DELHI:  A book on the Bard of the Brahmaputra, Bhupen Hazarika was launched by Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, presenting him as a genius and a symbol of creativity.

The book "Bhupen Hazarika: Volume II", edited by Utpal Mena and translated by Bhairabanan Borah, has contributions by the likes of A R Rahman, Saira Banu and Raveena Tandon, among others.

In the first volume, the editors made an attempt to bring out the larger implications of Hazarika's work by evaluating, elucidating and delineating his various perspectives.

In this volume, more emphasis has been given to close textual analysis of Hazarika's works.

The present volume of essays on Hazarika's music, political and cultural philosophy, though not directed by any of the critical creeds, comprises a variety of interpretations dependent on contemporary ideas, the editors said.

Moreover, the volume includes many pieces of writing arbitrarily put together on Hazarika and stories being penned by people with whom he came across in his journey of life; some analytical writings on his lyrical compositions, research work, and sociopolitical involvements; and a few memoirs on his death or even a literary resurrection from death.

The book is originally written in Assamese, Bengali, Nepali and Marathi have been translated in English.

Additionally, the authors represent how Hazarika, through his music, held up to his listeners a mirror to life.

At the book's launch at the Srimanta Sankaradeva auditorium here on Wednesday, Khan hailed Hazarika as an extremely learned person.

"It is very rare that a musician is also a poet. Historically, many musicians did not get a chance to go to school or colleges as they were busy practising. But Bhupen Da was such an exception. He was a symbol of creativity as a singer, composer, writer and lyricist. He was a gifted, committed and versatile musician," he said.

Khan also said Hazarika popularised Assam's folk music through his songs.

Also, his wife Subhalakshmi Barooah, a famous Bharatanatyam dancer, recalled several anecdotes related to Hazarika.

Adding to it, National Award-winning filmmaker and film critic, Utpal Borpujari stressed that more works of Hazarika should be translated

The book has been published by Mrinal Sarma of Chitrachal, Guwahati.

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