New Assamese documentary explores Bhupen Hazarika’s songs on social injustice
The 82-minute Manuhar Gaan, a feature-length documentary, also examines the music maestro’s body of work, highlighting social and historical events
A new Assamese documentary, Manuhar Gaan (The Hum of Humanity), explores the works of late singer Bhupen Hazarika, whose songs often addressed social injustice and historical events. The film, directed by Utpal Borpujari, was released in Guwahati ahead of the musician's centenary on August 22, 2026. Born on September 8, 1926, Hazarika passed away on November 5, 2011.
Filmmaker Borpujari stated that while many in Assam and West Bengal know Hazarika as a great musician, the documentary aims to highlight his social commitment as an artist. The 82-minute film, produced by Dolly Borpujari, Prabhat Chandra Borpujari, and Abhijit Bhuyan, took eight years to complete, facing funding challenges during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Filming took place primarily in 2018 and 2025, with editing done later. The documentary features interviews from Hazarika's family members, including his sister, nephew, and close associate. It includes contributions from cinematographer Chida Bora, associate director-editor Bhaskar Jyoti Das, editor Diganta Bora, sound designer Debajit Gayan, assistant director Uday Bhaskar Patar, second unit cameraman Rituraj Shivam, and poster designer Samudra Kajal Saikia.
Sarhad, a Pune-based foundation, has petitioned Indian officials to rename the Mumbai-Guwahati Express after Hazarika, citing his significant role in connecting the two cities.
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