Assam was once again shrouded in sorrow on the day of Uruka, as news broke of the passing of noted Assamese singer Samar Hazarika. He was the younger brother of the legendary Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, a cultural icon of Assam and a Bharat Ratna awardee. Samar Hazarika had been unwell for some time and was recently admitted to a private hospital in Guwahati. He passed away peacefully at his residence in Nijorapara, Guwahati, on January 13. His death cast a shadow over the festive occasion, a day usually celebrated with community feasts and bonfires marking a bountiful harvest, making the loss all the more poignant for Assam’s cultural community.
A Musical Legacy Carried Forward
Born into the illustrious Hazarika family, which played a defining role in shaping modern Assamese music, Samar Hazarika carved out his own distinct identity as a musician. Beginning his journey in 1960, he lent his voice to numerous Assamese films and released many music albums, enriching the state’s cultural repertoire. While his elder brother, Bhupen Hazarika, became a global ambassador for Assamese culture, bringing its music and message to the international stage, Samar remained deeply rooted in the local musical landscape. His contributions helped sustain and nurture Assamese music at home, inspiring generations and preserving a rich artistic tradition that continues to resonate across the state.
A Major Loss to Assam’s Cultural Fabric
Samar Hazarika’s passing is widely regarded as a significant loss to Assam, particularly its cultural sphere. His soulful voice and artistic sensibilities were a vital thread in the fabric of Assamese music and identity. Known for his emotive singing and dedication to preserving Assamese musical heritage, Samar’s death has left a void that is deeply felt by music lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. The timing of his demise on Uruka, a festival symbolizing joy and togetherness, has added a layer of melancholy to the celebrations. It serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the enduring power of art to connect communities even in times of grief.
Tributes from Leaders and Cultural Figures
Following the news of Samar Hazarika’s passing, tributes poured in from across Assam and beyond. Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, expressed deep sorrow and paid homage to the veteran singer, acknowledging the indelible mark he left on the state’s cultural landscape. In a heartfelt condolence message, Sarma highlighted how Samar’s soulful voice had illuminated countless occasions and enriched Assamese culture for decades. Similarly, Pijush Hazarika, the Minister for Information and Public Relations and government spokesperson, expressed profound grief. He described Samar Hazarika as a revered artist whose songs touched generations and became an inseparable part of Assam’s collective memory. These tributes underscore the high regard in which Samar Hazarika was held and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
