Hem Barua

Hem Barua

Hem Barua (born on April 22, 1915, in Tezpur, Assam) was a distinguished Assamese poet, freedom fighter, and parliamentarian, whose contribution to both Assamese literature and Indian politics remains unparalleled. Known for his literary brilliance and bold political ideologies, he played a significant role in shaping modern Assamese thought and expression.

A brilliant student throughout his academic career, Barua completed his Master’s degree in English from Calcutta University in 1938. He began his professional journey as an English lecturer at Jagannath Barooah College (J.B. College) in Jorhat, Assam in 1941. However, driven by patriotic zeal, he resigned within a year to actively join the Quit India Movement. For his involvement, he was imprisoned in 1943.

After his release, he resumed his academic pursuits and joined B. Barooah College in Guwahati, eventually becoming its Principal. But Hem Barua was not just an educator—he was an active literary figure and political voice for Assam.

Political Career:

Hem Barua began his political journey with the Indian National Congress, but left the party in 1948 to join the Socialist Party. He became a key figure in the Praja Socialist Party (PSP) and was elected to its National Executive Committee. As a representative of Assam, Barua was elected to the Lok Sabha from Guwahati in 1957 and 1962, and from Mangaldoi in 1967, serving as a Member of Parliament until December 1970.

Although in the Opposition, his influence in the Parliament was significant. Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru often consulted him and invited him to personal discussions. Hem Barua was admired for raising critical issues concerning Assam and the Northeast in the national legislature.

Literary Contributions:

A pioneering voice in the modern Assamese literary movement, Hem Barua authored numerous books, poems, and essays that continue to influence generations. His works reflect themes of patriotism, culture, love, and social consciousness. In 1972, he was elected as the President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha at its session in Dhubri, honoring his immense literary contribution.

Notable Works by Hem Barua:

English:

  • The Red River and the Blue Hill (1954) – A groundbreaking book on the ethnic communities and tribes of Northeast India.

Assamese:

  1. Adhunik Sahitya (1948)

  2. Sagar Dekhicha (1954)

  3. Balichanda (1959)

  4. San Mihali (1958)

  5. Cupid Aru Psyche (1959)

  6. Ranga Karabir Phul (1959)

  7. Kannaki (1960)

  8. Ei Git (1961)

  9. Idle Hours (1962)

  10. Assamese Literature (1962)

  11. Sahitya Aru Sahitya (1962)

  12. Achuphul (1964)

  13. Man Mayuri (1965)

  14. Bahagate Pati Jaon Biya (1969)

  15. Smritir Papari (1970)

Other Assamese Books:

  • Talxora

  • Dak Pokhili

  • Mekong Noi Dekhilu

Barua was also a passionate orator and cultural activist. He is remembered for his poetry that voiced the aspirations and ethos of Assamese society, and for his role in making Assamese literature more accessible and relevant during post-independence India.

Legacy:

Hem Barua passed away on April 9, 1977, but his legacy continues to grow through his impactful poetry, social activism, and literary contributions. His timeless writings and parliamentary service continue to inspire writers, thinkers, and public leaders across Assam and beyond.