Early Life and Education:
Parbati Prasad Baruah was born on August 19, 1904, in Sivasagar, Assam, near the banks of the Dikhow River.
His family was deeply entrenched in literary and cultural activities. His father, Radhika Prasad Baruah, and his mother, Himala Devi, were both well-regarded litterateurs.
Baruah graduated in philosophy from Kolkata's Scottish Church College under the University of Calcutta.
During his time in Kolkata, he was influenced by the works of Rabindranath Tagore, which shaped his future creative endeavors.
Literary Contributions
Poetry and Music:
Baruah is known as the "Geetikavi" of Assam due to his significant contributions to Assamese poetry and music.
Some of his notable works include: -
"Bhonga Tukarir Sur": A book of poems.
"Gungunani": A collection of songs including "Pujo Aha" and "Nobolo Tuk."
"Luiti": Songs about the river Luit, such as "Luitor Saporit Kore Naworiya."
"Sukula Dawor Oi Kohuwa Phul": Songs about the autumn season.
Dramas:
Baruah wrote and produced several notable dramas, such as:
"Lakhimi"
"Sonar Soleng"
These dramas were significant in promoting Assamese culture and traditional dance forms.
Cinema:
Parbati Prasad Baruah was one of the early pioneers of Assamese cinema.
In 1940, he produced, directed, and acted in the fourth Assamese movie, "Rupohi," for which he also composed the music.
His efforts in cinema introduced new trends and integrated traditional Assamese elements into modern formats.
Personal Life and Legacy:
Baruah married Padma Kumari in 1934 and managed the Raidang and Sonarie Tea Estates while continuing his artistic pursuits.
His life was marked by a series of strokes from 1953 to 1964, leading to his death on June 7, 1964.
His contributions to Assamese culture are celebrated to this day.
Events like the one organized by the Indian Gananatya Sangha on his birthday highlight his enduring legacy.
His creative spirit lives on through his compositions and the cultural gatherings he inspired, such as the "Jonaki Mel."
Awards and Recognition:
Baruah's poetry has been translated into multiple languages, and English translations of his poems were honored with the Sahitya Akademi Golden Jubilee Literary Translation Award in 2007. His works continue to be a source of inspiration and cultural pride in Assam and beyond.
Geetkavi Parbati Prasad Baruah, a luminary in Assamese literature, is celebrated for his poetic genius and profound contributions to Assamese music and culture. His lyrical compositions and devotion to the arts have left an indelible mark on the literary heritage of Assam.