[Assam] Lyricist Tafazzul Ali passes away-Bahudin Bokulor Gondh Poowa Nai

[Manoj Das]

Lyricist Tafazzul Ali passes away
By Our Correspondent
 GUWAHATI, July 5 – Legendry lyricist and music director of the Assamese
music industry, Tafazzul Ali (79) breathed his last at his residence in
Chandmari's Nabagiri area around 11:30 this morning owing to old-age
ailments. He leaves behind his wife and a son. His last rites were performed
at the Hazi Musafir Khana around 9 pm.

Born to Dr Mehboob Ali and J Begum on October 16, 1929 in Bhutiachang Tea
Estate of Mongoldoi district, Ali completed his graduation from the Cotton
College and later joined Gauhati University, where he did his Masters in
Assamese.

Ali also served the Kanoi College and the Gauhati Commerce College as Head
of the Department (Assamese).

Apart from continuing his academic career, the musical icon, who has more
than 1,000 compositions to his credit, had a strong penchant for music since
his childhood and is credited to have penned his first song at the tender
age of eight.

His best works as lyricist were compiled in the form of book titled *Bahudin
Bokulor Gondha Poa Nai* recently. His other major contributions came in his
other compilations like Sonali Sorai, Mandakranta and Aghori Kokaidewor
Geet.

As music director, Ali's most acclaimed contributions were witnessed in
Putola Ghar, Sonor Harin, Mrityuhin Jeevan and Anal, among others. He also
scored music for the top mobile theatre group, Kohinoor Theatre and earned
fame as a talented playwright as well.

He was also the founder secretary of the Asom Natya Sanmilan and was
actively associated with the All India Radio and the Jyoti Chitraban Film
Society.

The maestro was honoured with the Bishnu Prasad Rabha Award in the year
1995.

Condoling the death of Ali, noted singer Amar Hazarika said, "His death has
certainly created a void in the music industry and his contributions would
be remembered till music is heard."

A host of distinguished personalities of the music industry including singer
Pulok Banerjee turned out at the residence to pay tributes to his mortal
remains.

Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi also condoled the death of the musical icon.