The Sangeet Natak Akademi North East Centre organized a special program named “Smaran” in memory of Dr. Birendranath Datta, a litterateur and Tagore Fellow of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, on the occasion of his first death anniversary.
Academic and Career:
- Dr. Birendranath Datta was a distinguished academician, folklorist, and artiste with an accomplished career in academia.
- He achieved top positions in both matriculation and ISc examinations.
- He completed his BA and MA in Economics from Visva Bharati University and Gauhati University, respectively.
- In 1974, he earned a PhD from Gauhati University, focusing on the folk culture of Goalpara district.
Academic Institutions served:
- Dr. Datta was associated with several institutions, including Gauhati University, B Borooah College, and Tezpur University.
- He also served as the president of Asam Sahitya Sabha and had been unwell for some time.
Artistic Legacy:
- As a talented artiste, Dr. Datta actively contributed to All India Radio through regular performances and music programs.
- Music Career
Datta was not only a singer but also a talented composer. He composed several popular songs, including:
- “Monor Khobar”
- “Bahudin Bokulor Gondh Poa Naai”
- “Meli Dilo Man”
- “Rohimalaa Uronir Maajere”
- “Sou Sirish Daalat”
- “Tomaar Kaarane Jaau”
- “Aahinak Kone Anane”
- “Mou Daaponar”
- “Sita Banabaash”
- “Bogoli Bogaa Phot Di Ja”
- “Jilir Maate”
- “O Ghan Chirikaa”
- “Barashaa Tomaar”
- “Aakaashe Botaahe”
- “Aakaash Aamaak Akani Aakaash Diya”
In addition to these songs, Datta contributed to Assamese cinema by singing for the film Smrtir Parash, directed by Brojen Barua.
Notable Works:
- Cultural Contours of North-East India (Published by Oxford University Press)
- Puppetry in Assam: Past and Present
- Goalpariya Loka-Geet Sangrah
- Asamiya Sangitar Aitihya
- Bhasha Sahityar Jalangaidi
Through his literary works, musical compositions, and dedication to Assamese folk culture, Dr. Datta’s legacy continues to inspire generations in Assam and beyond.
