With his vision and artistic talent, novelist, writer, editor, and director Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia significantly changed the Assamese filmmaking landscape. His movies are still important not only because of their creative value but also because of their capacity to appeal to a wide range of viewers.

Born on February 20, 1932, in the town of Nagaon, Assam, Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia was a visionary whose contributions transformed Assamese cinema and literature. Some of the notable features of his movies were realism, minimalism, casting of non-professional actors for authenticity and natural lighting. In his view, films ought to capture the intricacies of life as it is experienced, free from fabricated adornment.

Early Life and Education

Bhabendra Nath Saikia’s early life was both dramatic and joyful. He often shared playful moments with his sister-in-law but remained deeply committed to his studies. He passed his matriculation in first division from Nagaon Government Boys’ Higher Secondary School, where he founded the school magazine ‘Uday.’

In 1950, he cleared his Intermediate Examination in Science, followed by a B.Sc. in Physics (Honors) from Cotton College, Gauhati University, in 1952. He then pursued a postgraduate degree in physics from Presidency College, Calcutta University, and later obtained his Ph.D. in nuclear physics from the University of London in 1961.

Words and Theories

“All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.”

— Walt Disney

Although Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia worked as a Reader in Physics at Gauhati University, his true passion laid elsewhere. Despite his academic career, he tirelessly contributed to literature. He was the editor of ‘Prantik,’ a renowned Assamese monthly magazine, and ‘Xaphura,’ a children’s magazine.

Deep engagement with the human situation is a defining feature of Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia’s cinematic work. His emotionally charged and culturally realistic films are still a must-watch for anyone wishing to comprehend the intricacies of Assamese life.

His contributions to the art have cemented his status as one of the most significant directors in Indian cinema, and the stories he created are proof of the ability of film to shed light on the human condition.

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The Golden Era of Assamese Cinema

During the 1970s, at a crucial turning point in Assamese cinema, Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia shifted his focus to filmmaking, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

His notable cinematic works and the stories behind:

1. Sandhyarag – A contemplative exploration of human relationships, capturing their complexities with subtlety. It was the first Assamese film to be screened in the Indian Panorama and won the National Film Award.

2. Anirban – Revolving around the lives of two characters, Rajini and Bhagwati, the film explores the continuity of life and the silver linings within struggles.

3. Agnisnan – Based on his own novel, this film explores the repercussions of polygamy and its societal impact.

4. Sarothi (1991) – A critically acclaimed movie addressing social issues.

5. Kolahol – A stark portrayal of the consequences of polygamy and how it led to poverty in Assamese society.

6. Abartan – Highlights the importance of fundamental rights and the dangers of their curtailment in a democracy.

7. Itihas – Based on the short story ‘Baran,’ which delves into the moral degradation of Assamese society and cultural values.

8. Kal Sandhya – A gripping narrative about educated unemployment and its link to insurgency in Assam.

Critics and Personal insights

All of his films received both positive reviews and international attention, demonstrating that quality films can be produced even in the absence of a supportive state filmmaking environment. His films, according to critics, are less of a cinematic metaphor and more of a literary element.

His inclination to dialogue has led some critics to criticize his films as being overly literary. Bhabendra Nath Saikia claims that his films have a unique literary element, and he has stated that he could have established a literary film genre if he had been able to produce a few more.

Contributions to Literature

Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia was a literary genius, weaving stories that resonated deeply with Assamese society. In addition to his work as a filmmaker, Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia wrote a lot of plays and novels.

Since he frequently adapted his storylines from his own writings, his literary background had a big impact on his filmmaking technique. His flexibility as an artist is demonstrated by his ability to portray the complexities of human emotions in both media.

His Notable Novels are:

1. Antarip – Depicts the struggles of women post-marriage and the impact of polygamy.

2. Ramyabhumi – Paints a vivid picture of Assamese rural life and its societal dynamics.

3. Atankar Shekhot – Explores the dilemma between earthly desires and spiritual aspirations.

Short Story Collections:

• Prahari, Sendur, Gahabar, Srinkhal (Award-winning), Upakantha, Ai Bandaror Abeli, Brindaban, Tarnga, Sandhya Bhraman, Galpa aru Shilpa and Akash.

Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia used pseudonyms to write a number of the stories set in foreign countries. The pen name “Sanchay” was used to write three stories. His name appeared on the remaining ones. He said, “I did not feel like writing short stories in my own name because it would be a little different from the way I write short stories.”

Prominent Plays:

1. Ramyabhumi 2. Neelakantha 3. Maharanya 4. Deenbandhu 5. Paandulip 6. Amrapaali 7. Aranyat Godhuli 8. Monikut 9. Gabhor 10. Gadhuli 11. Amrit 12. Barnamaalaa 13. Bandeexaal 14. Paramaananda 15. Xubho-Xongbaad 16. Bixumbha 17. Andhakup 18. Digambar 19. Junak Rati 20. Brindabon 21. Janmabhumi 22. Pratibimba 23. Ejak Jonakir Jilmil

Children’s Books:

1. Maramar Deuta

2. Tumalukor Bhal Houk

3. Xantaxista Hristopusto Mahadusta

4. Mahadustor Dustobuddhi 5. Maram

Collections of Essays:

• Xekh Pristha (Volumes 1-4)

Autobiographies:

1. Jibon Britta

2. Jeevon Rekha

3. Mur Hoishab, Mur Koishur

Humor Books:

It is important to note that his hilarious writings were eventually collected in a book titled “Kalpalokar Kahini.” In Assamese literature, he is arguably the only author who used numerous pseudonyms.

The underlying relevance of this humorous work by him is the exploration of the surrounding socio-cultural issues, the disclosure of certain vital elements of the Assamese people’s character, the observation of the ironies that are commonly found in everydayness, etc.

His Legacy & Honors

Dr. Saikia’s contributions to literature, cinema, and culture earned him several prestigious awards:

1. Sahitya Akademi Award for his short story collection Srinkhal.

2. Assam Valley Literary Award for his immense contribution to Assamese literature.

3. Srimanta Sankardev Award (1998) by the Government of Assam.

4. Padma Shri for his services to literature, culture, and cinema.

A Champion for Social Change

“Change is never painful; only resistance to change is painful.”

— Gautam Buddha

Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia believed that those who understand suffering can offer the best remedies. With the prize money he received from the Assam Valley Literary Award, he established the Arohan Trust in Guwahati. This trust provides free training to underprivileged children interested in art, theatre, and music.

Enduring Influence

Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia was not just a filmmaker or writer; he was a cultural torchbearer. His impact on Assamese cinema inspired future generations, paving the way for high-budget Assamese films in contemporary times. Recognizing his unparalleled contributions, the Government of Assam instituted the Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia Cultural Award in his honor.

His legacy will continue to illuminate the cultural landscape of Assam, inspiring generations to come.