Papon on the banks of the Brahmaputra at Majuli in Assam

“My mother wasn't keeping well and she didn't want to sing. I had to persuade her. My father passed away three years ago and I couldn't work with him. My dream was to work with both my parents,” reveals Papon, who recently composed the anthem for the debut edition of Namami Brahmaputra — a five-day river festival (from March 31 to April 4) in Assam to showcase the state's art and culture. The 41-year-old is known for his playback exploits in the film industry, but his repertoire also encompasses Indian Classical music, Borgeet and the Folk music of Assam, which he learnt from his parents — eminent Folk singers Khagen Mahanta and Archana Mahanta. His mother sang in the Assamese version of Namami Brahmaputra. “I will treasure this all my life,” he adds.