In a nostalgic tribute to the late folk sensation Pratima Barua Pandey, admirers across the state of Assam commemorate what would have been her 89th birthday today.
The renowned Goalpariya (Koch Rajbongshi/Kamatapuri/Deshi) folk singer, born on October 3, 1934, in Calcutta, left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape with her soul-stirring melodies and deep-rooted connection to the folk traditions of Western Assam.
Pratima Barua Pandey, a scion of the royal family of Gauripur in Dhubri district, began her musical journey in her hometown and the vibrant city of Calcutta.
Despite receiving early education in Calcutta's Gokhale Memorial School, she found her true calling when she returned to Assam to study at the Girls’ High School in Gauripur.
Immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Goalpariya lokageet, her musical talent blossomed under the encouraging words of her father, Prakritish Chandra Barua (Lalji).
The turning point in her life came in 1955 when the legendary Dr Bhupen Hazarika recognised her raw talent during a jalsa in Gauripur. Dr Hazarika's prophecy that her voice would elevate Goalpariya lokageet proved accurate, marking the beginning of a stellar career.
Pratima Barua Pandey's repertoire boasts timeless classics such as "Hastir Kanya," "Mur Mahut Bandhure," and "O Mor Mahut Bondhu re." Her unique ability to refine and polish traditional Mahut songs, inspired by her family's elephant-capturing traditions, set her apart.
Notably, she also delivered captivating performances of Rabindrasangeet and the evergreen hit "We Are in the Same Boat, Brother" in stage shows.
The legendary folk artist's contributions did not go unnoticed, as she received accolades including the prestigious Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi award for popularizing Goalpariya lokageet. Her pivotal role in bringing this folk genre to national prominence earned her these esteemed honors.
Pratima Barua Pandey's life story found cinematic expression in the documentary "Hastir Kanya," crafted by noted filmmaker Prabin Hazarika.
The documentary, awarded the National Film Award for Best Biographical Film in 1997, garnered widespread acclaim and left an indelible mark at the South Asian film festival in 1998.
In a more recent tribute, filmmaker Bobby Sarma Baruah captured the essence of Pratima Barua Pandey's life in the full-length feature film "Sonar Baran Pakhi," released in December 2016. This cinematic portrayal serves as a lasting homage to the folk legend's enduring legacy.
As admirers celebrate Pratima Barua Pandey's 89th birth anniversary, her melodies continue to echo through the cultural corridors of Assam, ensuring that her contribution to Goalpariya lokageet remains eternally cherished.
