Chirag Gupta
Patna: A special cultural event was organized at Premchand Rangshala, Rajendra Nagar, Patna, to commemorate the 137th birth anniversary of Bhikhari Thakur. The program was jointly held by the Arts, Culture, and Youth Department of Bihar and the Bharatiya Nritya Kala Mandir.
The event commenced with a song dedicated to Bhikhari Thakur, performed by Rameshwar Gop and his team. Hailing from Bhikhari Thakur’s district, Gop is celebrated as the second Bharat Vyas Sharma of Bihar. He captivated the audience with songs such as “Lagata Piyawa Batohia” and “Chadta Jawani, Aag Lage Rupaiya Ke,” accompanied by talented musicians Prem Pandit on Nagada, Gaurav Pandit on Dholak, and others.
The highlight of the evening was the staging of Bhikhari Thakur’s renowned play ‘Gabarghichor,’ directed and musically conceptualized by Raju Mishra, Secretary of Anhad. The play featured captivating performances by Sparsh Mishra as Galiz, Anjali Sharma as Galiz Bo, Mohd. Asif as Gabarghichor, and other artists who received applause for their remarkable acting and music. Behind the stage, Rohit Chandra on harmonium, Gaurav Pandey on Dholak, and others ensured seamless musical arrangements, while lighting design by Rahul Ravi enhanced the visual experience.
Bhikhari Thakur, often called the ‘Shakespeare of Bhojpuri,’ was a poet, playwright, lyricist, actor, and social reformer. His works, including ‘Bidesiya,’ ‘Beti Bechwa,’ and ‘Putra Vadh,’ highlighted societal issues and promoted social reform. His contributions to Bhojpuri culture and language remain relevant and continue to inspire.
The program also paid tribute to Thakur’s rich legacy, emphasizing the importance of preserving his cultural heritage. Stage management by Sameer Chandra was highly commendable. The event was attended by Deputy Secretaries Sushant Kumar and Anil Kumar Sinha, along with a large gathering of writers, artists, students, and cultural enthusiasts, who honored the legacy of Bhikhari Thakur and his impact on Bhojpuri art and society.
