Khowai, October 1: Tripura minister Animesh Debbarma on Thursday paid tribute to legendary musician and composer Sachin Dev Burman on his birth anniversary and urged the younger generation to preserve the state’s cultural heritage while using modern technology to take traditional art forms to wider audiences.
The Department of Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA), Tripura, organised a state-level programme at New Town Hall here to commemorate the birth anniversary of the celebrated composer.
The programme began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp by Debbarma, followed by floral tributes to Sachin Dev Burman’s portrait.
MLA Pinaki Das Chowdhury, ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharya, Khowai Zilla Parishad Chairperson Aparna Singh Roy and other dignitaries attended the programme.
Musical performances were organised during the event to commemorate Sachin Dev Burman’s contribution to Indian music and showcase the enduring appeal of his compositions.
Addressing the gathering, Debbarma said Sachin Dev Burman’s music continued to resonate with audiences across generations and remained an important part of India’s musical heritage.
He highlighted the composer’s deep connection with Tripura, saying his musical journey was shaped by the state’s folk traditions, rural landscape and the lives of ordinary people.
Sachin Dev Burman was born into Tripura’s royal family on October 1, 1906. He later moved to Kolkata and Mumbai, where he established himself as a prominent musician and composer. Despite achieving recognition outside the state, his music continued to reflect the influence of his cultural roots, Debbarma said.
The minister said Sachin Dev Burman’s journey demonstrated that pursuing opportunities beyond one’s homeland did not require abandoning one’s cultural identity.
He urged young artists to use digital platforms and modern technology to promote traditional music and cultural practices and connect them with audiences beyond geographical boundaries.
Debbarma specifically called upon the youth to promote Kokborok music, Bengali folk traditions and indigenous musical instruments.
“Traditions remain alive when younger generations reinterpret and carry them forward rather than confining them to the past,” he said.
The minister also encouraged aspiring artists to remain committed to their craft despite setbacks and failures.
Talent, he said, was not determined by one’s hometown or financial circumstances, and artists from smaller towns could reach wider audiences through dedication, creativity and technology.
Debbarma said commemorating Sachin Dev Burman’s birth anniversary should go beyond ceremonial tributes and speeches.
He called for efforts to identify and nurture emerging talent and provide young artists with opportunities to develop and showcase their abilities.
The programme concluded with musical tributes to Sachin Dev Burman, celebrating his enduring contribution to Indian music and his lasting association with Tripura’s cultural heritage.
