Hiren Bhattacharya – The Immortal Voice Of Assamese Poetry

Hiren Bhattacharya – The Immortal Voice Of Assamese Poetry

Hiren Bhattacharya (1932 – 2012), lovingly known as Hiru Da, was a legendary Assamese poet hailed as the "Poet of Love and Sunshine" (Prem aru Rodalir Kobi) and "Poet of Fragrant Butterflies" (Sugandhi Pokhilar Kobi). Born in Jorhat district of Assam, his poetic legacy continues to live in the hearts of Assamese readers across generations.

His father Late Tirthanath Bhattacharyya served as a jailer, and his mother was Late Snehalata Bhattacharyya. Hiren Bhattacharya began writing poetry early in life, with his first poem published in 1957, and he went on to become one of the most celebrated voices in contemporary Assamese literature.

Literary Style and Legacy

Hiru Da’s poetry is known for its simplicity, lyrical charm, and emotional depth. He had a unique ability to capture love, nature, and human emotions in a way that resonated with every reader. He considered all his poems as a single, continuous piece, much like Walt Whitman’s poetic philosophy.

He drew inspiration from everyday life, crafting verses that reflected the beauty, struggle, and tenderness of human experiences. His poetry remains a source of inspiration for writers and lovers of Assamese literature.

Notable Poetry Collections by Hiren Bhattacharya

  1. Mor Desh Mor Premor Kabita (1972)

  2. Bibhinna Dinar Kabita (1974)

  3. Kabitar Rode (1976)

  4. Tomar Gaan (1976)

  5. Sugandhi Pokhila (Selected Poems, 1981)

  6. Saichar Pathar Manuh (Collected Poems, 1991)

Children’s Poetry and Rhymes

A rare gem in Assamese literature, Hiru Da also wrote delightful nursery rhymes that continue to be loved by children:

  1. Lora Dhemali (1991)

  2. Akon Dhemali (1991)

Editorial Contributions

Hiren Bhattacharya served as the editor of numerous Assamese magazines and newspapers such as Chitrabon, Monon, and Antorik, contributing immensely to the literary and cultural discourse of the state.

Awards and Honors

Over the decades, Hiren Bhattacharya was honored with several prestigious awards for his literary excellence:

  • Bishnu Rabha Award (1985)

  • Soviet Desh Nehru Award (1987)

  • Sahitya Akademi Award (1992)

  • Assam Valley Literary Award (Asom Upotyoka Sahitya Bota) (2000)

Final Years and Legacy

On July 4, 2012, the literary world lost Hiren Bhattacharya. He passed away after being hospitalized due to lung and urinary infections. He is survived by his wife and daughter. Despite his physical absence, his poetry lives on — read, recited, and revered by all who value beauty, emotion, and simplicity in words.

Conclusion

Hiren Bhattacharya wasn’t just a poet — he was an emotion, a voice, and a symbol of the soul of Assam. Through his heartfelt verses, he carved a permanent space in the realm of Indian regional literature. Hiru Da’s poems are not just read — they are felt, lived, and remembered, making him one of the most endearing poets Assam has ever produced.