Shillong: Tarun Bhartiya, an acclaimed filmmaker, poet, and social activist, passed away on the morning of January 25 at Woodland Hospital in Shillong, Meghalaya, after suffering a heart attack. He was 54.
Bhartiya is survived by his wife, social activist Angela Rangad, and their three children—two sons and a daughter.
Bhartiya leaves behind a rich legacy in filmmaking and art, with his notable works such as The Brief Life of Insects (2015) and The Last Train in Nepal (2015) standing as enduring testaments to his creative genius.
His profound impact on documentary filmmaking and his ability to capture the essence of human experiences earned him accolades and admiration across the country.
Among his many achievements, Bhartiya was awarded the National Film Award for Best Editing in 2009 for his documentary In Camera: Diaries of a Documentary Cameraman.
However, his career was not just about recognition; it was also marked by bold acts of resistance. In 2015, he returned his Rajat Kamal award to then-President Pranab Mukherjee as a protest against rising intolerance and division in India.
Bhartiya was also a gifted poet who primarily wrote in Hindi. His work featured in celebrated anthologies, including Dancing Earth: Contemporary Poetry from Northeast India, showcasing his ability to bridge cultures and capture the complexities of life in the region.
Beyond his art, Bhartiya was a passionate activist who used his platform to advocate for justice, equality, and human rights. His life was dedicated to challenging the status quo and inspiring others to think critically and act courageously.
As the nation mourns his untimely demise, Tarun Bhartiya’s legacy continues to resonate through his films, poetry, and activism.
His work will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come, encouraging them to question, reflect, and create in the pursuit of a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Read More: Sikkim’s Four-Time Olympian Tarundeep Rai to Compete at National Games