Abdul Majid

Abdul Majid (16 November 1931 – 24 September 2017) was a celebrated Assamese actor, film director, producer, and theatre personality whose contributions played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of Assamese cinema and stage performance. His work combined artistic depth with cultural authenticity, earning him recognition as one of the leading figures of regional cinema in India.

Early Life and Background

Abdul Majid was born in Old Balibat, Jorhat, Assam, into a family that valued education and culture. He attended Moktaw School and later Government High School in Jorhat, completing his matriculation around 1950. He then joined Jagannath Barooah College, where his interest in performing arts deepened, though he did not complete his degree.
Before dedicating himself fully to acting and filmmaking, Majid worked in various capacities, including a position as a cultural officer at the Assam State Electricity Board in Guwahati. Despite modest beginnings, his passion for art and storytelling led him to build a lifelong career in theatre and cinema.

Beginnings in Theatre

Majid’s artistic journey began on stage, where he found his true calling. While still a student, he founded a small drama troupe and performed in numerous plays. His dedication to theatre soon brought him into the thriving Assamese mobile theatre movement, where he acted and directed in several notable productions. He became associated with some of Assam’s leading theatre groups, including Kohinoor, Awahan, and Purbajyoti, performing in more than two hundred plays throughout his career.
The discipline, timing, and emotional range he developed on stage became the foundation of his later work in cinema. His ability to convey deep emotions with subtle gestures and expressive dialogue delivery made him a respected figure among both audiences and peers.

Entry into Cinema

Abdul Majid made his film debut in Ronga Police (1958), directed by Nip Barua, where he played a negative role. His portrayal of the antagonist was widely appreciated, and he quickly gained recognition as one of Assamese cinema’s most promising actors. During the early decades of Assamese filmmaking, when resources were scarce and production quality was often limited, Majid’s commitment to his craft helped elevate the artistic standards of regional cinema.

Directorial Career

Majid’s transition from acting to direction marked a significant phase in his career. His directorial debut, Morom Trishna (1968), established him as a filmmaker with a unique vision. However, it was his 1975 film Chameli Memsaab that brought him national acclaim. The film, set in the tea gardens of Assam, explored a poignant love story between a British tea planter and an Assamese girl. Its rich storytelling, visual beauty, and musical brilliance made it one of the most iconic films in Assamese cinema.
Chameli Memsaab won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Assamese and earned widespread appreciation for its music composed by Bhupen Hazarika. The film remains a milestone in regional cinema for its emotional depth and technical finesse.
Over the years, Majid directed several other films, including:

• Banhangsa (1977)
• Banjui (1978)
• Ponakon (1981)
• Uttarkaal (1990)
• Saat Numberor Sandhanat (2016) – his final directorial venture, completed at the age of 84.

Each of his films reflected a deep understanding of Assamese society, exploring themes such as love, morality, social change, and identity.

Artistic Style and Influence

Abdul Majid’s creative vision was marked by simplicity, realism, and strong emotional storytelling. His films often portrayed the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people in Assam, capturing both the beauty of the region and the complexities of its social fabric.
As a director, he was known for his attention to detail, naturalistic acting, and the use of local dialects and music to evoke authenticity. As an actor, he displayed remarkable versatility—equally convincing in villainous, comedic, and sympathetic roles. His performances were characterised by intensity and restraint, earning him a reputation for depth and sincerity.
Through both cinema and theatre, Majid helped bridge traditional Assamese cultural expression with modern artistic techniques, contributing to the development of a distinct Assamese cinematic identity.

Awards and Recognition

Over his lifetime, Abdul Majid received numerous honours for his contribution to theatre and film. Among his notable awards were:

• Bishnu Prasad Rabha Award
• Natasurya Phani Sarma Award
• Jyotirupa Media Award
• Prag Cine Lifetime Achievement Award

He also won the Best Director Award at a multilingual drama festival in New Delhi in 1971, recognising his excellence in theatre direction.

Challenges and Legacy

Working in a regional film industry with limited infrastructure posed constant challenges for Majid. Budgets were small, and filmmaking technology was often outdated compared to mainstream Indian cinema. Yet, his creativity and determination overcame these barriers. He not only sustained a career in such conditions but also produced work that earned national recognition.
Majid’s influence extended far beyond his own achievements. He mentored young actors and filmmakers, helped promote Assamese culture through cinema, and inspired future generations to pursue creative arts.

Death and Remembrance

Abdul Majid passed away on 24 September 2017 in Guwahati at the age of 85 after a prolonged illness. His death marked the end of an era for Assamese cinema and theatre. He was survived by his wife, Akuma Majid, and their sons—Nesimul, Kaju, and Omar—who continue to preserve his legacy.
Following his passing, tributes poured in from artists, politicians, and admirers who recognised his role in bringing Assamese culture to national prominence.