Patna: Patna witnessed a moving tribute to one of Bihar’s most influential cultural figures on Saturday as the Department of Art and Culture hosted the Bhikhari Thakur Memorial Ceremony at the Indian Dance Art Temple.
The event opened in a dignified atmosphere with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the institute’s administrative officer, Kahkashan, along with scholars participating in the seminar. The ceremony marked a celebration of the life and legacy of Bhikhari Thakur, widely regarded as a pioneer of Bhojpuri folk theatre and a powerful voice against social evils.
In her welcome address, Kahkashan described Thakur as a people’s artist who devoted his life to eradicating social injustice. She said his plays and songs had awakened generations to issues of inequality, exploitation, and moral responsibility, adding that his work remained as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.
The cultural segment began with a performance by young artist Pooja Upadhyay, who presented Kajri and other folk songs drawn from Thakur’s rich musical tradition. Her emotionally charged rendition transformed the auditorium, immersing the audience in the spirit of Bhojpuri folk culture and setting the tone for the evening.
The subsequent seminar brought together leading scholars and cultural practitioners. Renowned writer, folk singer, and former chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Dr Shankar Prasad, spoke on Thakur’s contemporary relevance. He observed that any creation remembered after two centuries must be considered timeless, noting that Rahul Sankrityayan had once described Thakur as the “Shakespeare of Bhojpuri” because of the importance of music and dramatic depth in his plays.
Dr Suman Kumar, the second speaker, traced Thakur’s journey in theatre, explaining how he initially trained in Ramleela performances but later formed his own drama troupe when he felt traditional forms were insufficient to express the social pain he witnessed. Through this troupe, Thakur carried his message of reform, justice, and awareness to villages across the region.
Dr Ranjit Kumar, the third speaker, reflected on the philosophical depth of Thakur’s works, saying the names of his plays and characters mirrored his inner world. He highlighted the recurring themes of spiritual longing and the separation between the soul and the divine in Thakur’s dramatic compositions.
Folk singer Manoranjan Ojha added that Thakur’s rise from singing while grazing cattle to becoming known as the “Shakespeare of Bhojpuri” symbolised his dedication, discipline, and creative genius, making his life story as inspiring as his art.
The evening concluded with a traditional performance by artist Abhishek Raj, who presented songs rooted in Thakur’s legacy, leaving the audience deeply moved.
Participants, artists, and guests collectively reaffirmed their commitment to carrying forward Bhikhari Thakur’s social, cultural, and literary vision. The ceremony ended in an atmosphere of reflection, reverence, and renewed inspiration.
