Avinibesh Sharma launches Aarchive to preserve Bhupen Hazarika's legacy on birth centenary

Guwahati: In a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Bhupen Hazarika, Jorhat’s Avinibesh Sharma has embarked on a mission to preserve the maestro’s indelible legacy. As the world marks Hazarika’s birth centenary, Sharma has unveiled an archive and gallery that offers a tangible connection to the bard’s life and works, ensuring his name continues to resonate with millions.Hazarika’s illustrious journey, spanning music, cinema, literature, and public life, is celebrated through this meticulously curated collection. While museums have long showcased his public persona, Sharma’s initiative delves deeper, offering a glimpse into the personal life of the man whose creations have touched countless hearts.Among the treasures housed in the archive is a facsimile of Hazarika’s doctoral thesis from Columbia University, a testament to his lifelong commitment to education and innovation.

With the help of Hazarika’s son, Tej, Sharma has also amassed 70 books penned by or about the maestro, alongside rare booklets chronicling his early days in Kolkata’s film industry.The collection boasts an impressive array of 20 LPs, EPs, and shellac records, including Hazarika's debut LP from 1969, featuring the beloved “Shillongore Godhuli.” These records capture the essence of Hazarika’s musical genius, bridging the gap between Assamese and Bengali cultures.

Sharma’s journey to create this archive has been a labor of love, supported by families who shared personal letters and photographs of their time with Hazarika. “He was more than a musician; he was a friend to many,” Sharma reflects. “This archive is a way for people to remember him as he truly was,” he adds.Drawing inspiration from international efforts to preserve the works of icons like Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, Sharma’s project underscores the importance of safeguarding Hazarika’s multifaceted contributions. While the archive is a significant step, Sharma acknowledges that much work remains to fully honour the maestro’s life and achievements.