Agartala, October 1: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday described legendary singer-composer Kumar Sachin Dev Burman as the “face of Tripura” and paid tribute to the iconic musician on his birth anniversary.
Saha was addressing a commemorative function held at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan to mark the birth anniversary of Burman, whose music has remained influential across generations.
The chief minister said Burman’s contribution extended beyond the world of music and formed an important part of India’s cultural heritage. He said Tripura continued to take pride in the achievements of the celebrated artiste.
Saha also drew attention to the historical association of the venue with Burman, saying it had once been his residence.
Recalling the musician’s journey, the chief minister said Burman had moved away from the privileges associated with his royal background and carved out an independent identity through his dedication to music.
“It is not enough to simply remember him. We must honour him by keeping his creations alive and carrying forward his legacy,” Saha said.
Born on October 1, 1906, at Chartha in Comilla, then part of the Kingdom of Tripura, Sachin Dev Burman belonged to the Manikya royal family.
His father, Nabadwip Chandra Dev Burman, was a noted sitar player and gave him his early musical training.
According to Saha, Burman’s musical journey was shaped by folk traditions and classical influences. His compositions drew from the natural surroundings of Bengal, including its rivers and rural life, as well as the experiences of ordinary people.
Burman began his career in Bengali music and subsequently established himself as a major figure in Hindi cinema. He was associated with All India Radio and Hindustan Records and contributed to films including “Devdas”, “Guide”, “Jewel Thief” and “Abhimaan”.
His son Rahul Dev Burman, popularly known as Pancham, later emerged as a prominent Hindi film composer and continued the family’s musical legacy.
Saha also highlighted Burman’s association with the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. He said songs by the musician broadcast through Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra inspired freedom fighters during the conflict.
Burman received several major honours during his career, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Filmfare Awards, the 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 dignitaries attended the programme.
Students of the State Music College performed Burman’s songs, adding a musical tribute to the commemorative event.
