Patna: Today, on the 136th birth anniversary of Bhikhari Thakur, the revered father of Bidesiya and a symbol of Bihar’s cultural heritage, the Bhikhari Thakur Theater Training and Research Centre, in collaboration with the Department of Art, Culture, and Youth, Bihar, presents “Bhikhari the King” at the Nritya Kala Mandir auditorium in Patna.
The two-day cultural extravaganza was inaugurated by the Minister of the Art, Culture, and Youth Department, Jitendra Kumar Rai, in the presence of Additional Chief Secretary Harjot Kaur Bamhrah, renowned dance artist Lakhichand Manjhi, Director Ruby, and other distinguished guests. The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp, followed by all guests paying homage to the late Bhikhari Thakur by garlanding his portrait.
Minister Rai expressed his pride in belonging to the same district as Bhikhari Thakur, acknowledging the significant role played by the legendary artist in crafting plays and songs that address the need for a healthy and just society. He emphasized the enduring relevance of Thakur’s creations in today’s context, highlighting his visionary thinking. Minister Rai underscored the vital role of artists in preserving Bihar’s culture and identity, affirming the government’s commitment to supporting artistic development across various disciplines.
Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Harjot Kaur Bamhra shed light on the program’s theme, “Bhikhari the King,” dedicated to the memory of the influential playwright. Bhikhari Thakur’s more than a dozen plays and songs, addressing social issues in a simple yet impactful language, were praised for their transformative effect on societal attitudes. ACS Kaur commended the work of Lakhichand Manjhi, a disciple of Bhikhari Thakur, and presented him with the prestigious “Bihar Art Award” for his outstanding lifelong contribution to dance art under the category of Lifetime Achievement Award (Performing Arts).
During the event, Lakhichand Manjhi received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a memento as part of the Bihar Kala Samman. He also treated the audience to a performance of Sohar, a composition by Bhikhari Thakur.
The program featured a discussion on “New Generation and Bhikhari Thakur,” accompanied by a captivating musical presentation titled Tigola, featuring world-renowned singer Kalpana Patwari, folk singer Sarita Saaz, and Bhojpuri heritage singer Rameshwar Gop, a disciple of Padmashree Ramchandra Manjhi. The highlight of the evening was the staging of Bhikhari Thakur’s play “Gabarghichor,” skillfully directed by Dr. Jainendra Dost, leaving the audience enchanted by the profound narrative and artistic expression.
