Late Bhupen Uzir, a renowned music director, sound recordist, and guitarist, made an indelible impact on Assam’s music and film industries. He continues to inspire generations with his love of music, creativity, and commitment to developing fresh talent. Starting as a guitarist at the young age of 13, Uzir’s passion and dedication to music brought him to the recording industry, where he played guitar with several well-known musicians. He made his debut as a music director in 1982 with the Assamese feature film ‘Devi’, and during the course of his distinguished career, he directed music for over 25 films. In 1989, Bhupen Uzir founded Auditek, a cutting-edge recording studio in Guwahati, paving the way for a revolution in the music industry. He distinguished himself as a pioneer in the field by becoming the first person in the entire Northeast to launch digital audio recording. His dedication to music and technology motivated him to launch the Auditek School of Music and Technology in 2007. With a mission to make sound recording and music production accessible to all, the school offered courses at a nominal fee, inspiring countless aspiring musicians and sound recordists. Bhupen Uzir’s contributions have been recognized with various honours from both government and private organizations, solidifying his legacy.
To honour this iconic figure and ensure that his legacy lives on in the hearts of Assamese people, the ‘Bhupen Uzir Smriti Raksha Samiti’ was founded. The primary objective of the committee is to inspire, honour and preserve Bhupen Uzir’s remarkable contributions to Assamese music and cinema.
The committee’s motto, “Honoring the Melody and Preserving the Legacy,” ensures that the younger generation remembers Bhupen Uzir’s profound impact on the region’s cultural and musical heritage. As a tribute to the legendary artist, the Bhupen Uzir Smriti Raksha Samiti will celebrate his 72nd birthday with a musical evening on Saturday, April 5, 2025. On this occasion, an online singing competition to commemorate Bhupen Uzir’s birthday has been organized, featuring some of his most beautiful and timeless compositions.
The competition will be held in two categories. Singers under the age of 14 will compete in category A, while those beyond the age of 14 will compete in category B. In both categories, there will be three prizes. The competition rules and songs have already been made available on the Facebook page of ‘Bhupen Uzir Smriti Raksha Samiti’. Contestants must submit a video of their preferred song via WhatsApp or email to Bhupen Uzir Smriti Raksha Samiti by March 25, 2025. In addition to a trophy, the winners will be awarded certificates and cash prizes. An intimate musical evening titled “Hiya Bhora Xubhokamonare 2025,” will be held at the Sri Sri Madhavadeva International Auditorium of Shrimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra of Panjabari, Guwahati, on April 5, 2025 in honour of the late artiste’s birthday. The musical evening will feature performances by both established and emerging Assamese musicians, with the top contestant earning a performance slot. Prizes will also be awarded to the winners of the online singing competition. Additionally, three instrumentalists and sound recordists will be specially honoured for their lifetime achievements on the occasion. The organisers have sought the cooperation of the public in making this event a success. It is worth noting that the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Govt of Assam, has confirmed its support for the event.
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