New Assamese film documents Bhupen Hazarika's protest music legacy

A new feature-length documentary is bringing fresh focus to the musical and social contributions of Bhupen Hazarika, one of Assam's most celebrated cultural figures. The film, titled Manuhar Gaan, spans 82 minutes and provides a comprehensive exploration of Hazarika's extensive body of work, tracing how his compositions engaged with pressing social and historical issues of his time.

Hazarika, who achieved recognition across India and beyond, used his music as a vehicle for addressing injustice and giving voice to the marginalized. His songs emerged from and reflected the lived experiences of ordinary people, resonating particularly in Assam and the broader Northeast region. The documentary examines this critical dimension of his artistic output, positioning Hazarika not merely as an entertainer but as a socially conscious artist.

The release of Manuhar Gaan comes as part of a broader effort to document and preserve the cultural heritage of Assam's musical traditions. By analyzing Hazarika's approach to composition and his thematic preoccupations, the film contributes to a deeper understanding of how regional artists engaged with questions of equity, historical trauma, and social change through their work.

The documentary represents a significant archival effort for scholars and cultural enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of music, society, and history in Northeast India during the 20th century.