Honouring Tapan Bose feels bittersweet. As I stand here as an octogenarian, tributes like these make me reflect on the cruel twist of fate—outliving a dear friend who dedicated his life to advocating for human rights. Tapan, a sprightly spirit ten years my junior, deserved to contribute even more to this crucial cause than I could ever.
Our paths first crossed in Delhi during the late 1970s. Emerging from prison post-Emergency, I sought allies to champion civil liberties. It was here I found Tapan, passionate and committed to the cause of the oppressed. His relentless pursuit of truth took a dramatic turn when he uncovered state-sponsored atrocities in Bhagalpur prison, leading to his groundbreaking documentary, _An Indian Story_ (1981).
Despite initial resistance from the authorities, Tapan’s courage led to the film’s eventual release, exposing a dark coalition of landlords, police, and politicians. His filmmaking journey continued with powerful works such as _Behind the Barricades_ and _Jharkhand_, reflecting his unwavering dedication to human rights. Tapan didn’t stop at film; he embarked on fact-finding missions across conflict zones like Punjab and Kashmir, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by locals.
I fondly recall our investigations together, particularly in Kashmir during the late 1980s. We produced reports unveiling the government’s oppressive actions against the populace—one notable report was aptly titled _India’s Kashmir War_. Our trip to Bangkok in the late 90s to meet Naga leaders further exemplified Tapan’s commitment to human rights advocacy across borders.
Tapan’s vision extended beyond India, co-founding the Pakistan India People’s Forum for Peace and Democracy to foster dialogue and friendship between the two nations. I remember his insistence that the group’s name prioritise ‘Pakistan’ to promote equality and reassure our counterparts across the border, reflecting his deep understanding of shared struggles.
Beyond serious discussions on human rights, Tapan cherished lighter moments shared in vibrant gatherings at my home in New Delhi, laughing over political jests and enjoying delightful Thai dishes he prepared himself. His zest for life made our connections even more enriching.
As Tapan faced health challenges in his later years, he remained engaged, supporting activists from afar. Even as his appearance began to fade, his spirit shone brightly through the media, reminding us of his unwavering commitment. I will forever miss his warm greetings: “Sumanta da, how are you?”
Tapan Bose’s legacy is a powerful blend of human rights activism and personal friendships. He rose to prominence through impactful documentaries exposing state atrocities and worked tirelessly across conflict zones in India. He founded the Pakistan India People’s Forum for Peace and Democracy to bridge divides, while his lively spirit was evident in cherished gatherings. Even in later years, Tapan’s commitment to activism remained strong, leaving a lasting influence on all who knew him.
Tapan Bose’s life was a testament to the enduring spirit of human rights activism, transcending national borders and embodying genuine camaraderie. His films exposed injustice, while his friendships fostered unity between divided communities. Though his physical presence may be gone, Tapan’s legacy of compassion and unwavering advocacy for the oppressed lives on, inspiring future generations to carry the torch for justice and equality.
Original Source: m.thewire.in
