‘Bhupen Da Uncut’ Documentary Continues Its Journey Across India and Abroad
Shot during Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s visit to the United Kingdom in 1999, the documentary presents a rare first-person account of the legendary singer-musician, filmmaker and cultural icon, offering candid insights into his life, philosophy and memories.
GUWAHATI- A special screening of “Bhupen Da Uncut,” a documentary offering a rare and candid glimpse into the life, memories and philosophy of Assam’s legendary singer, musician and cultural icon Dr Bhupen Hazarika, was held at Anuradha Cineplex in Guwahati on Tuesday.
The screening was organised in collaboration with the Guwahati Cine Club.
The documentary was produced by Chinnmoy Sharma, directed by Mrs. Bobbeeta Sharma and edited by Mr. Ravindra Badgaiyan, under the banner of Sangita Advertising.
Rare Footage from 1999
What makes Bhupen Da Uncut particularly significant is its rare archival footage, filmed during Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s visit to the United Kingdom in 1999.
Presented as a candid, first-person account, the documentary captures Bhupen Hazarika—fondly known as Bhupen Da—speaking about different phases of his extraordinary life.
The film takes audiences back to his childhood and explores the influences that shaped his journey, including his interactions with important cultural figures such as Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, the pioneer of Assamese cinema.
The documentary also revisits his years of higher studies in New York, his relationship with his wife Priyamvada Patel, and aspects of his philosophy and ideology.
In several candid moments, Bhupen Da is also seen reciting his poetry, including verses that the makers believe may not have been published earlier.
A Window into the Mind of a Legend
Beyond chronicling events from his life, the documentary attempts to portray the personality and inner world of Dr Bhupen Hazarika.
His recollections reflect his assertions, disappointments and emotional moments while also offering glimpses of his childlike innocence, simplicity, sensitivity and openness.
The film, shot approximately 26 years ago on a High-8 camera, is considered significant for its archival value.
As the documentary is based largely on Bhupen Hazarika’s own recollections and reflections about his life and philosophy, it also serves as an important first-hand record of one of India’s most influential cultural personalities.
The documentary has gained additional significance as the centenary year of Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s birth is being commemorated.
Screenings Across India and Overseas
Bhupen Da Uncut was premiered in Guwahati on September 7, 2025, at Anuradha Cineplex in the presence of members of Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s family.
The documentary subsequently had international screenings in Warsaw, Poland, on October 14, 2025, and in Luxembourg on October 25, 2025, at programmes associated with Assamese communities and cultural events.
It was also screened at the Nehru Centre in London on October 28, at a programme organised in association with the High Commission of India in the UK and the Assamese Association.
The documentary was later screened at the Rutgers University of New Jersey in September 2026, followed by a screening in Houston, USA, in association with Assamese cultural organisations.
Bhupen Da Uncut was also selected for screening at the Mumbai-Indie-Film Festival on November 13, 2026, and was screened at the Chalachitram Film Festival in Jyoti Chitrabon on October 24, 2026.
The film had earlier been screened under special packages at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Goa in November 2025.
Taking Bhupen Hazarika’s Legacy to New Generations
The documentary has also been invited for screenings at academic institutions and cultural platforms, including the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Gauhati University and other institutions and independent social and cultural organisations.
By preserving rare footage and presenting Bhupen Hazarika in his own words, Bhupen Da Uncut offers audiences an opportunity to encounter the legendary artist beyond his celebrated songs and public persona.
The documentary’s continuing journey across India and overseas reflects the enduring relevance of Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s artistic, cultural and human legacy, particularly as Assam and the wider cultural world commemorate his centenary year.
