Assamese singer Shankuraj Konwar has emerged as a versatile talent from India’s northeastern state of Assam. As he prepared to perform at a spring festival in Dubai, his thoughts were not only on the iconic Burh Khalifa but also on the jaw-dropping action scenes from Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible: The Ghost Protocol. Konwar, who draws inspiration from Prince’s Purple Rain, expressed his fascination with the writers’ imaginative creation of the iconic Burj Khalifa scene.
Konwar is not your average young visitor to Dubai, as he stands out for his unique journey. He left his job as a mechanical engineer in 2016 to pursue his musical dreams, earning the admiration of the young generation in his home state. His music, based on EDM-influenced rhythms and deep, soulful vocals, reflects a sincerity toward good music that resonates with the youth in an age of short attention spans.
All of Konwar’s songs on YouTube are released under Project Baartalaap, a concept created by him and his friends. This initiative was born from an event for people with disabilities, where they realized the power of communication through music. Project Baartalaap aims to have conversations through music, poetry, and art, leaving a lasting impact on listeners and engaging them in meaningful dialogue.
Konwar’s unique approach to music has garnered millions of views on YouTube, showcasing his creativity and artistic depth. Despite not aiming to build a music career, the acceptance and love received for their music reflect the beauty of art. Inspired by the success of Project Baartalaap, Konwar aims to take contemporary regional music from Assam to a wider audience, drawing inspiration from K-pop to dream of reaching a pan-India level.
Konwar’s love for ‘non-film music’ highlights the rich musical landscape of Assam, driven by iconic figures like Bhupen Hazarika and Jayanta Hazarika. Their contributions to Assamese music have shaped a unique musical heritage that sets it apart from mainstream Bollywood music. Konwar’s desire to elevate Assamese music to a national level reflects his admiration for the diverse musical influences present in the region.
In a heartwarming turn of events, Konwar’s meeting with Alakananda at a music festival in Majuli led to the creation of a love anthem. Despite the challenges of the lockdown, Konwar’s dedication to composing a song for Alakananda resulted in a touching moment that resonated with millions of music lovers in Assam. The song, named after Alakananda, has become a symbol of love and connection, showcasing Konwar’s ability to evoke emotion and captivate audiences with his music.
