Agartala, October 1: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday paid tribute to legendary composer and singer Kumar Sachin Dev Burman on his birth anniversary, describing the celebrated musician as the “face of Tripura” and recalling his enduring contribution to Indian music and culture.
Addressing a commemorative programme at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, Saha said Burman's musical works continued to enrich India's cultural heritage and remained a matter of pride for Tripura.
Saha pointed out that the venue where the tribute was organised had once been associated with Burman's residence, lending special significance to the occasion.
Recalling the composer's life and career, the chief minister said Burman had given up royal privileges and chosen to establish himself through his musical talent and dedication.
“It is not enough to simply remember him. We must honour him by keeping his creations alive and carrying forward his legacy,” Saha said.
Sachin Dev Burman was born on October 1, 1906, at Chartha in Comilla, then part of the Kingdom of Tripura. A member of the Manikya royal family, he received his early musical guidance from his father, Nabadwip Chandra Dev Burman, a noted sitar player.
Saha said Burman's musical style reflected his exposure to folk traditions and classical music, drawing inspiration from the rivers and rural landscape of Bengal as well as the lives of ordinary people.
Burman went on to make a significant contribution to Bengali and Hindi cinema. His career also included associations with All India Radio and Hindustan Records. His compositions and singing featured prominently in several acclaimed films, including “Devdas”, “Guide”, “Jewel Thief” and “Abhimaan”.
His son, Rahul Dev Burman, popularly known as Pancham, subsequently emerged as a prominent composer in Indian cinema and carried forward the family's musical legacy.
Saha also recalled Sachin Dev Burman's association with the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. His songs broadcast by Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra became a source of inspiration for freedom fighters, he said.
The chief minister also referred to the honours conferred on Burman during his lifetime, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Filmfare Awards, National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer and the Padma Shri.
The tribute programme was organised by the State Department of Information and Cultural Affairs.
Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee, senior officials and other distinguished personalities attended the event.
Students of the State Music College presented several of Burman's songs during the programme, paying musical tribute to the legendary artiste and celebrating his enduring contribution to Indian music.
