Jyoti Prasad Agarwala (1903–1951) was a multifaceted genius from Assam — a poet, playwright, lyricist, composer, filmmaker, and freedom fighter. He is widely regarded as the “Rupkonwar” (Prince of Beauty) of Assamese culture for his immense contribution to literature, music, and cinema. Born on June 17, 1903, in Tamulbari Tea Estate near Dibrugarh, he belonged to a progressive and patriotic family that played a key role in Assam’s cultural awakening. Deeply inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Jyoti Prasad actively participated in the Indian freedom movement. At the same time, he worked to modernize Assamese art and culture. In 1935, he produced and directed Joymoti, the first Assamese film, making him the pioneer of Assamese cinema. Jyoti Prasad Agarwala passed away at the young age of 48, but his legacy remains deeply rooted in Assam’s cultural identity. January 17, the day of his death, is observed as Silpi Divas (Artists’ Day) in Assam to honor his contributions to the arts and the spirit of Assamese renaissance.