Bhupen Hazarika always remembered for his songs

Bhupen Hazarika, who died of multi-organ failure on 5 November, 2011, was a popular singer, composer, lyricist, music director and filmmaker from Assam. The music maestro, who was also known as Dronacharya of music, will always be remembered for his songs like Dil Hoom Hoom Kare (Rudaali), Zara Dheere Zara Dheeme (Ek Pal) and Naino Mein Darpan Hai (Aarop).

Bhupen Hazarika was born in Sadiya, a small town in northern Assam in 1926. He passed his graduation and masters from Banaras Hindu University before receiving his doctorate in mass communication in the USA's Columbia University. He was the President of the Asam Sahitya Sabha in 1993.

Bhupen Hazarika sang his first song in the second Assamese film Indramalati in 1939, when he was just 12. As a singer, he was known for his baritone voice and diction. He wrote and composed over 1,000 songs. He was popular for his folk music. He was known for his poetic compositions and parables, which touched on themes ranging from the erotic to social and political commentary.

Besides, Bhupen Hazarika also produced one movie and directed many Assamese films. He bagged President's national award thrice for Shakuntala (1960), Pratidhwani (1964) and Loti Ghoti (1967). He was a complete artist and his works echoed beyond the borders. He was conferred with several honours like National Film Awards, Padma Bhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke Award and Asom Ratna

However, Bhupen Hazarika married Priyamvada Patel during his college days in Columbia University, but they were separated after 13 years. They had a son Tej Bhupen Hazarika, who lives in the US. However, Hazarika was admitted to the intensive care unit in the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital on 30 June, 2011. He died of multi-organ failure on 5 November, 2011. His body will be cremated in Assam.

We, at Oneindia pray, may the departed soul of Bhupen Hazarika rest in peace.