Angaraag Mahanta, popularly known by his stage name Papon, is a celebrated Indian playback singer, composer, and the lead vocalist of the folk-fusion band Papon and The East India Company. Born on November 24, 1975, in Nagaon, Assam, Papon’s musical journey is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. His unique blend of Assamese folk traditions with contemporary genres has earned him acclaim both nationally and internationally.
Early Life and Musical Roots
Papon hails from a family steeped in musical tradition. His father, Khagen Mahanta, was a renowned Assamese folk singer, and his mother, Archana Mahanta, was also a prominent figure in the Assamese music scene. Growing up in such an environment, Papon was naturally inclined towards music from a young age. He initially pursued architecture but later shifted to English Literature at Delhi University, where he continued to nurture his passion for music.
Musical Evolution and Breakthrough
Papon’s professional music career began in 1998 with the Assamese song “Nasaba Sokule” from the album Snigdha Junak. His debut Assamese album, Junaki Raati, released in 2004, showcased his versatility and deep connection to Assamese folk music. However, it was his 2012 Hindi album, The Story So Far, that marked a significant milestone in his career. The album, which blends Assamese folk with modern sounds, received widespread acclaim and won the Global Indian Music Award for Best Pop Album.
Papon and The East India Company
In 2007, Papon founded the electronic folk-fusion band Papon and The East India Company. The band, known for its eclectic mix of Assamese folk, blues, metal, and trip-hop, has performed at prestigious festivals like the SAARC Music Band Festival, Eastwind Festival, and NH7 Weekender . Their innovative sound has garnered a dedicated fan base and has been instrumental in bringing Assamese music to the global stage.
Bollywood and Television Appearances
Papon’s foray into Bollywood began with the song “Om Mantra” from the film Strings – Bound by Faith in 2006. He gained widespread recognition with the song “Jiyein Kyun” from Dum Maaro Dum in 2011. Other notable tracks include “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage” from Dum Laga Ke Haisha, “Humnava” from Hamari Adhuri Kahani, and “Bulleya” from Sultan. His soulful renditions have earned him several awards, including the 22nd Screen Award for Best Male Playback Singer .
Beyond playback singing, Papon has made significant contributions to television. He composed the theme song “Jajabor” for MTV Roadies X: Battle for Glory in 2013. He also served as a mentor on The Voice India Kids, where his nurturing approach and musical expertise resonated with audiences.
Awards and Recognitions
Papon’s exceptional talent has been recognized with numerous awards:
- 22nd Screen Award – Best Male Playback Singer for “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage”
- Global Indian Music Award (GiMA) – Best Pop Album for The Story So Far
- 8th Mirchi Music Awards – Best Male Playback Singer for “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage”
- GiMA Awards 2015 – Best Pop Album for Coke Studio @ MTV Season 3 – Papon
- IIFA Awards 2016 – Best Male Playback Singer for “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage”
These accolades underscore Papon’s versatility and enduring impact on the Indian music industry.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives
Papon’s commitment to social causes is evident through his philanthropic efforts. In 2019, he organized a fundraising concert titled #ForAssam in Mumbai to aid victims of the devastating floods in Assam. The event featured performances by prominent artists like Vishal Dadlani, Shekhar Ravjiani, Shantanu Moitra, and Benny Dayal, among others . Papon’s initiative highlighted the power of music in bringing communities together for a noble cause.
Film Production Ventures
Expanding his horizons, Papon ventured into film production with two projects rooted in Northeast India: The Land of the Sacred Beats and The Mystical Brahmaputra – A Musical Story. Both films aim to showcase the rich cultural tapestry of Assam and the Northeast, promoting tourism and preserving indigenous stories .
Vision for Assam’s Musical Future
Papon envisions Guwahati as the music capital of Northeast India. He believes that the city, with its rich musical heritage, is poised to lead the region in music and cultural events. During his performance at the Rongali Festival, he emphasized the need for dedicated music festivals in Assam to provide a platform for local and international artists .
Personal Life
Papon resides in Mumbai with his wife, Shweta Mishra Mahanta, and their two children. Despite his success, he remains deeply connected to his roots in Assam, often returning to his homeland to perform and engage with his fans.
Conclusion
Angaraag ‘Papon’ Mahanta’s journey from the serene landscapes of Assam to the global music stage is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for music. Through his soulful voice, innovative compositions, and commitment to social causes, Papon has carved a niche for himself in the Indian music industry. His efforts to promote Assamese culture and music continue to inspire aspiring artists and music enthusiasts worldwide.
