‘Gulzar is a part of my creative journey’-Namrata Datta
‘Growing up, Gulzar's lyrics were not just melodies to me; they were an intimate connection etched into my heart. As a singer, his compositions echoed through my childhood, and I found myself frequently humming his tunes. However, it wasn't just the music that captivated me; it was the enchantment woven into his words. This profound admiration for Gulzar's artistry sparked my interest in exploring his literary world, leading me to his book, 'Actually I met them.' To my astonishment, the journey took an unexpected turn when Sanjay Kumar Sanyal, a respected producer at Assam Publishing Company, presented me with a unique opportunity – to translate Gulzar's book into Assamese. The outcome was the Assamese rendition named 'Smritir Manuhbor.' The unveiling ceremony was graced by Mumbai's screenplay writer and director, Akashaditya Lama, alongside Kolkata's Ranjan Ghosh.’
Subham Panseshwar delved into a conversation with Namrata Datta about the book and her fascinating journey of creativity.
Q: How did your foray into writing begin?
Namrata: My journey into writing commenced during my school days, although initially, I never envisioned sharing my creations with the world. Singing occupied the forefront of my pursuits at that time. After marriage, a serendipitous encounter with La Rochefoucauld's 'Maxim' ignited an unplanned translation journey, fueled by a growing attachment to the book.
Fate intervened when I met Mr Jiten Deka, a senior publisher from Nalbari, who, after a brief discussion about books, requested a manuscript. His unwavering confidence became a pivotal catalyst. Completing the translation and handing it over to him, I soon discovered a report in the weekly newspaper Sadin, acknowledging the Assamese translation of 'Maxim' by me. It was a report by Bedabrat Bora. This unexpected recognition was a gratifying milestone.
Q: Tell us about your original writing.
Namrata: Inspired by Keshab Mahanta's Assamese lyrics, I harboured a fervent desire to unravel the untold stories behind those melodious tunes. Approaching him, he generously agreed to share his insights, culminating in the creation of 'Priyatama ei Jivan.' The book garnered positive feedback. Additionally, I authored a novel titled 'Kathopakatha,' derived from a distinctive Sunday program I conceptualized for a local FM channel. It was a fictional narrative in the form of conversation. Curated songs were inserted in between the conversation to enhance the situation and the mood of the narrative. Rituparna Das, a distinguished broadcaster and playwright-director, lauded the program's form and content. Later, I expanding this concept into a novel. Mr Das hosted the book release event. Pervez Ahmed, a filmmaker, and my school friend, even translated parts of the novel into an English film under the title ‘Cherrypicker’, now available on mxplayer.
Q: You wrote a book on Assamese Lyrics and the Freedom movement. Could you share more about this book?
Namrata: This book emerged from a research project that earned me a Senior Fellowship from the Indian Government's Department of Culture. Titled 'Reflection of India's Freedom Movement in Assamese Lyrics,' it proved to be a laborious yet profoundly fulfilling undertaking.
Q: What about your book on Modoji's Maan Ki Baat?
Namrata: The concept for this book originated from Sanjay Kumar Sanyal. We meticulously selected excerpts from Modiji's 'Mann Ki Baat,' focusing on social responsibility, community development, success stories, and innovative ideas evident in his speeches. I firmly believe these speeches unveil the leader's inner spirit, philosophy, and administrative approaches. The resulting book, titled 'Mor Priya Deshbashi,' is an essential read for those seeking to understand the man behind the Prime Minister.
Let me add one line more, I translated some poems by GulzarJi and those were published in book form by a prestigious publication house of Assam- Journal Emporium. The title of the book is ‘Gulzaror Kabita’ (Poems by Gulzar). That was probably first translation of Gulzar in Assamese book form.
Beyond her writing journey, her career has taken diverse paths, from being a casual announcer and news reader at Akaswani and Doordarshan to transitioning into private TV channels and FM radio. She has also worked in newspapers and magazines. Presently, her active involvement in social work. Her projects includes co-authoring a book with my husband - , titled 'Pati, Patni and Bandhabi (Man, woman and Girl Friend).' And household hacks for working women titled Gharuwa Diha (Household Tips).
Happy Rongali Bihu! 🎉🪁🌾
Happy Rongali Bihu! 🎉🪁🌾
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As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let's embrace the traditions and customs that make this festival so unique. Let's enjoy the vibrant music, colorful attire, and delicious delicacies that come with Rongali Bihu.
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At Naishtika Audio Visuals, we are proud to be a part of this beautiful culture and wish you all a very happy and prosperous Rongali Bihu.
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#CelebratingHeritage #RongaliBihu2023 #JoyfulTraditions #AssameseCulture #Naishtika #NaishtikaAVs #NaishtikaAudioVisuals #Mumbai www.naishtika.com
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Let's spread the joy together! 🤗🎊🎈
#MNKDiscovery Haflong- the only hill station in Assam. Do experience scenic views in vistadome express. There are many places to visit in and around haflong. Jatinga- also known as valley of death for birds is located at about 9kms from haflong station(many migratory birds are seen dead in the evenings and night especially during the months of September to November. Many theories and mechanisms have been proposed but still it remains a mystery why birds die at a particular place). Its a must visit for bird lovers 😍 . . . Location : 📍 Haflong,Assam . . . . . Tag someone with whom you want to experience this 💞 . Follow us @musicnkafe for more . . . . . #assam #assamdiaries #assamesebeauty #assamtourism #awesomeassam #assamesetradition #assameseculture #assamshoutout #reelsassam #india #instagram #instagood #nature #northeast #life #lifestyle #landscape #photoshoot #assamese #northeast_india #bihu #incredibleindia #musicnkafe (at Haflong Hill Station) https://www.instagram.com/p/CVPimAZPaqe/?utm_medium=tumblr
Tamul paan ( areca nut and betel leaves ) is an inseparable part of Assamese social life . Every good meal has to be followed by a mouthful of "tamul paan" . Every guest is offered tamul paan ,as a mark of respect n love . Invitation to marriage ,religious ceremonies are traditionally given with tamul paan which is a mark of respect . Actually ,we don't need much reason to chew some tamul and paan !! Our Assamese tamul is not same as "supari" ,it has its own unique taste . Take a piece of tamul n paan with little bit of "sun " or lime and just keep chewing ..Enjoy the kick . Photo- @geeta_4u ••• www.oknortheast.com . . . . . #instagrammers #instaclick #instamoment #assameseculture #assamesecuisines #assamesekitchenessentials #assam #mybeautifulassam #tamulpaan #northeastindia #incrediblenortheast #traditions #foodtalkindia #walkwithindia #foodfeedblog #foodbuzz #foodbloggers #igersdaily #foodgasm #afoodiesdiary https://www.instagram.com/p/CPA2nRmHFK0/?utm_medium=tumblr
Assam Down Town University Pays Tribute to Bhupen Hazarika
Kulada Kumar Bhattacharya and Vice-Chancellor Dr. N C Talukdar
6th Nov 23 | Guwahati
Assam Down Town University (ADTU) commemorated the death anniversary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika by organizing a tribute event in Guwahati. This event paid homage to the illustrious musician, poet, and filmmaker, who is celebrated for his significant contributions to Assamese culture.
The principal speaker at the event was Kulada Kumar Bhattacharya, a distinguished figure in the realm of theatre and film within the state. In his address, Mr. Bhattacharya shared his personal encounters and collaborations with Dr. Bhupen Hazarika in the context of several cinematic projects. Notably, Mr. Bhattacharya recently received national recognition through a film award for his exceptional contribution to a documentary.
The commencement of the event featured a welcoming address delivered by Dr. Prateeti Barman, who holds the position of Dean within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Assam Down Town University. Dr. Barman emphasized the enduring importance of commemorating the legacy of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, whose influence persists as a source of inspiration for artists and music aficionados.
Dr Sagarika Mahanta Das
Utpal Datta, the Dean of Performing Arts at the university, introduced Kulada Kumar Bhattacharya, drawing attention to his substantial contributions to Assamese cinema and theatre. Mr. Bhattacharya's personal connection with Dr. Bhupen Hazarika added a poignant dimension to the event, underlining the genuine relationship between the chief speaker and the legendary artist.
Dr. Sagarika Mahanta Das played a significant role by bestowing honour upon Mr. Bhattacharya at the outset of the event, thereby reinforcing the evening's significance and underscoring the deep respect accorded to individuals who have enriched Assam's cultural heritage.
Dimple Chaudhury
In his lecture, Mr. Bhattacharya recounted his experiences and shared recollections of his collaboration with Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. He delved into the dynamics of their creative partnership, recounted poignant anecdotes, and expressed his profound admiration for the great artist. Mr. Bhattacharya's insights shed light on the dedication and passion that fueled Dr. Hazarika's artistic endeavours.
Pongal, Bihu, Lohri, Khichdi, Makar Sankranti, the names are many but the significance is one — to thank the universe for a bountiful harvest. Like all harvest festivals around the world, this one is centred around food too. SriStar Gold Company Extending warm greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of #MakarSankranti, #Pongal and #Bihu. May these festivals usher in goodness, peace, good health and happiness to everyone. #pongal #india #tamil #tamilnadu #festival #jallikattu #happypongal #southindianfood #foodphotography #makarsankranti #saree #sankranti #makarsankranti #Lohri #bihu #Khichdi #bihu #assamese #assam #axomiya #awesomeassam #assameseculture #guwahati #assamdiaries #bihudance #bohagbihu #shoutout #rongalibihu (at Pongal Carnival "The Village ") https://www.instagram.com/p/CKBHpyJrPFM/?igshid=1o2siyvghsid7
चित्तौड़गढ़ में असम के शास्त्रीय नृत्य सत्रिया की प्रस्तुतियां | सोसायटी फॉर द प्रमोशन ऑफ इंडियन क्लासिकल म्यूजिक एंड कल्चर अमंग्स यूथ चित्तौड़गढ़ चैप्टर के तत्वावधान में विरासत श्रृंखला 2023 के अंतर्गत असम के शास्त्रीय नृत्य की अंतर्राष्ट्रीय ��लाकार गुरु पद्मश्री बयानाचार्य घनाकांत वोरा की शिष्या अनवेषा मोहंता की प्रस्तुतियां चित्तौड़गढ़ में हो रही है । अन्वेशा मलेशिया, थाईलैंड, हांगकांग, इंग्लैंड, जापान, उतरी अमेरिका, आयरलैंड, कनाडा, यूएसए, श्रीलंका, फांस, न्यूजीलैंड आदि कई देशों में प्रशिक्षण दे चुकी है। पूर्व राष्ट्रीय कार्यकारिणी सदस्य जे.पी. भटनागर ने बताया कि सत्रिया की प्रस्तुतियां चित्तौड़गढ़ व गंगरार में होगी। पहली प्रस्तुति सुबह 8.30 बजे सेंती स्थित यूरोपियन किड्स स्कूल में होगी। दूसरी प्रस्तुति मेवाड़ विश्वविद्यालय गंगरार में दिन में 3.30 बजे होगी । #FacebookPage #viralpost #rajasthan #facebook #facebookpost #mewaruniversity #RajasthanNews #news #MediaPost #twitter #youth #assam #assamese #assameseculture #culturalheritage