Sachin Dev Burman (1906-1975) was a blue-blooded, real-life prince who renounced his regal adornments and way of life in Tripura to pursue his passion - music. He was fascinated by India’s folk music since childhood, and would grow up to be one of its greatest patron saints. As a young man, he would travel to the far corners of (the then undivided) Bengal and Eastern India to sample and imbibe the rich and varied folk music forms - walking alongside wandering minstrels, journeying with boatmen down rivers, and sharing frugal meals with rural folks. Later in life, he would travel to the heartlands of Bihar and United Provinces (now, Uttar Pradesh) soaking in the music of the soil firsthand from the locals, everywhere he went.
This book is based on 50 interviews with Sachin Dev Burman’s family, friends, work colleagues, assistants, and others who knew him closely in a professional and personal capacity - providing never-before glimpses into his music and his persona. These interviews were recorded over several years and have been meticulously transcribed for the enjoyment of the reader.
The interviews are supplemented by scholarly articles and insightful analysis by experts and music aficionados who are deeply familiar with his work.
We bring you this labour of love in the hope that it will resonate with everyone who wants to delve deeper into the life of one of Indian music’s most glorious exponents, who continues to inspire generations of musicians.
