Guwahati proudly hosts the premiere of ‘Bhupen da Uncut’, a celebration honouring the legendary maestro, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, on his centenary

In commemoration of the centenary of the legendary artist and Bharat Ratna recipient Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, who is celebrated as the quintessential embodiment of Assamese culture, Assam is honouring his legacy with a series of statewide events throughout the year. These initiatives, coordinated by a range of organisations, institutions, and the state government, aim to transform the centennial into a profound tribute rather than merely marking a chronological milestone.

            As a prelude to the historic occasion, the much-anticipated premiere of ‘Bhupen da Uncut’, a rare documentary featuring the legendary singer, composer, and Bharat Ratna recipient Dr Bhupen Hazarika, took place on September 7 at Anuradha Cineplex in Guwahati. The event was attended by members of Dr. Hazarika’s family, well-wishers, and noteworthy people from the political and cultural landscapes in Assam. Dr. Hazarika’s son, Tej Hazarika, came from the United States along with his wife, Candace Hazarika, and their son, Sage Akash Hazarika, to attend the event. Samar Hazarika, renowned singer and the younger brother of Dr. Hazarika, graced the gathering, joining hands with other beloved family members. The premiere commenced with an introductory speech delivered by producer and director Bobbeeta Sharma, who disclosed that the documentary showcased seldom-seen archival recordings captured in England in 1999.  Executive Producer Chinmoy Sharma extended the vote of thanks.

        After the film viewing, Samar Hazarika was swept by a surge of emotions, articulating that he sensed a resurrection of “Bhupen da” in the documentary, a treasure trove of profound insights into the life of the musical genius. Tej Hazarika and his family expressed their enthusiasm for the film’s depth and diversity.

            A plethora of luminaries from the realms of culture and literature graced the screening, with the likes of Manju Bora, Sanjib Sabhapandit, Runu Devi, Loknath Goswami, Malobika Bora, Pradip Baruah, Anuradha Sarma Pujari, Utpal Datta, and Dipannita Jaiswal, among a host of other distinguished guests. The premiere also attracted notable political figures from various parties, including former Culture Minister Hemoprova Saikia, former Minister and MP Pradyut Bordoloi, Congress Legislature Party leader Debabrata Saikia, former APCC president Bhupen Kumar Borah, former Culture Minister Bismita Gogoi, and former MP Queen Oja.

            Incorporating vintage video material shot over two decades ago on a Hi-8 camcorder by the executive producer Chinmoy Sharma, the film ‘Bhupen da Uncut’ runs for an hour and delves into a personal and unfiltered depiction of Dr. Hazarika during his 1999 trip to England, where he participated in a cultural event organized by the Assam Medical College Doctors Alumni Group. In this exceptional video documentation, Dr. Hazarika eloquently recounts anecdotes from his early life, detailing his upbringing, significant interactions with cultural luminaries such as Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, academic pursuits in New York, and personal insights into his marriage to Priyamvada Patel in the United States. The documentary offers viewers a profound exploration of the philosophical and ideological viewpoints held by Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. It delves into a previously undisclosed anthology of poetic works authored by Dr. Hazarika, providing insight into the extensive scope of his artistic heritage. This unveiling presents an exceptional and incomparable view into his realm of creativity, shedding light on facets of his poetic talent that had hitherto remained undiscovered.

            In ‘Bhupen Da Uncut’, we are granted an intimate peek into the profound depths of the iconic singer’s soul. Delving into his trials, periods of melancholy, unwavering strength, unassuming nature, and youthful vitality, this film unveils the multifaceted essence of the legendary artist.

            In 1999, Bobbeeta Sharma and her team traveled to England at the invitation of the Assam Medical College Doctors’ Alumni to film a program featuring Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. The event was coordinated by Dr. Nipen Borkotoky, who served as the primary organiser for the occasion. Subsequently, at the behest of Borkotoky, the program was aired on Doordarshan. During that period, Guwahati Doordarshan aired a much popular series named ‘Geetimalika’, produced by Chinmoy Sharma. Following the digitisation of several complete tapes brimming with untold stories and melodic notes, Bobbeeta Sharma gained a heightened sense of assurance and proficiency, prompting her to embark on the production of a one-hour documentary centered on the life and work of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

            ‘Bhupen da Uncut’ is conceptualised, directed and produced by Bobbeeta Sharma, with Chinmoy Sharma assuming the role of executive producer and cinematographer, Ravindra Badgaiyan taking charge as editor and creative director, and the narration script crafted by Jimoni Choudhury.