Guwahati: Across India, countless regional legends remain unknown beyond their native states—hidden under the weight of national narratives that often overlook their contributions. One such name is Hari Narayan Dutta Baruah, a towering figure in Assam’s intellectual and cultural history, whose pioneering efforts helped establish the Assamese language and script in literature and academia. His story, long overlooked, is now brought into focus through a compelling documentary titled Harinarayan, directed by filmmaker and journalist Utpal Datta. The 20-minute film is more than a biography; it is a tribute to a man who devoted his life to cultural empowerment. At a time when the Bengali script dominated Assam’s literary scene, Dutta Baruah was instrumental in introducing the Assamese script, forever changing the trajectory of the state’s literary and educational identity. His deep-rooted commitment to preserving Assamese heritage forms the core of the film’s narrative. Utpal Datta’s decision to make the film was sparked during an annual memorial lecture in Hari Narayan Dutta Baruah’s name at Assam University. Encouraged by journalist Anant Vijay and the university’s chancellor Dr. N.N. Dutta, Datta—who had grown up reading Dutta Baruah’s works and studied at a school founded by the Baruah family—felt a personal connection to the subject. What began as an idea soon became a heartfelt project that merged memory with history. The documentary captures Dutta Baruah not just as a literary figure but as a man of discipline, faith, and sacrifice. A devout Vaishnavite, he led a life shaped by spiritual rigor and intellectual dedication. Despite personal tragedies—including the loss of two children and his brother—he remained steadfast in his vision, founding Uma Press, a publishing house that championed Assamese texts and translated sacred literature for the masses. Research for the film spanned over 18 months, with noted library scholar Dr. Ruby Goswami playing a key role in accessing rare editions of Dutta Baruah’s publications. Datta also interviewed family members, historians, educators, and journalists to piece together a vivid portrait of the man behind the legacy. Contributions from Hari Narayan’s daughter and daughter-in-law add emotional depth, offering glimpses into his final years and lasting influence. Artistically, the film is bold and experimental. It shifts between black-and-white and color to convey different time periods and moods. Music by Tarali Sarma, blending traditional instruments with modern soundscapes, supports the philosophical undertones of the film. With limited resources, the crew—including DoP Ratul Barman and sound designer Debajit Gayan—crafted a cinematic experience that is both intimate and profound. What makes Harinarayan even more significant is the timing of its premiere. The film was screened at the very memorial lecture event that led to its inception—a moment of poetic completion for Datta. Speaking about the experience, he described it as a fulfillment of purpose and emotion, saying that it brought him “a sense of satisfaction on a different level.” Through Harinarayan, Utpal Datta revives the legacy of a forgotten hero, ensuring that Hari Narayan Dutta Baruah’s life and work continue to inspire. The film stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to honor those who have quietly but profoundly shaped the soul of a community.
0 Comments