Question 1849

Which singer from Assam was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2019?

Answer

Bhupen Hazarika

Why?

The correct answer is Bhupen Hazarika . Key Points Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was a renowned Indian playback singer, lyricist, musician, poet, and filmmaker from Assam. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, posthumously in 2019. Bhupen Hazarika is known for his deep baritone voice and for popularizing Assamese music and culture. He composed music for numerous films in Assamese, Bengali, and Hindi and was a prominent figure in the field of Indian music and cinema. Additional Information Bharat Ratna The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India. Instituted in 1954, it is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor. The award is conferred without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex. The recommendations for the Bharat Ratna are made by the Prime Minister to the President, with a maximum of three nominees being awarded per year. Bhupen Hazarika's Contributions Bhupen Hazarika’s songs, written and sung mainly in the Assamese language by himself, are marked by humanity and universal brotherhood and have been translated and sung in many languages, most notably in Bengali and Hindi. He was a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. He was a Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner, which is the highest award in Indian cinema given by the Government of India for lifetime contribution to cinema. Hazarika served as the chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's National Academy of Music, Dance, and Drama. Assamese Music and Culture Assamese music is known for its rich tradition and diversity, with influences from folk, classical, and contemporary styles. Folk music is an integral part of Assamese culture, with songs often depicting rural life, love, and nature. Bhupen Hazarika played a crucial role in bringing Assamese music to a broader audience, both in India and internationally. His compositions are often based on themes of social justice, communal harmony, and cultural pride.