The timeless Bengali folk song “Tu Laal Paharir Deshe Ja, Ranga Matir Deshe Ja”—a lyrical ode to the red soil of Bengal—was penned by the multifaceted Arun Kumar Chakraborty. Known for his diverse talents as a poet, mountaineer, environmentalist, Kathakali dancer, and mechanical engineer, Chakraborty passed away recently at his residence in Chinsurah, leaving behind a rich legacy of creativity and activism.
In tribute to this extraordinary personality, singer Deb Chowdhury organized Sahajiya Utsav 2024 at a city auditorium. The festival celebrated Chakraborty’s bohemian spirit through an eclectic showcase of folk music and dance.
“Chakraborty was a free spirit, and we wanted to reflect his vibrant life in this festival,” shared Chowdhury. Esteemed Bauls and Fakirs, including Debdas Baul, Mansur Fakir, Kartik Das Baul, Goutam Das Baul, Lakshman Das Baul, Rina Dasi, and Khudabuqsh Fakir, performed soulful renditions in his honor. Urban artists such as Ranjan Prasad, Swapan Basu, Soumitra Roy from Bhoomi, Tonmoy Kar, Shovan Sundor, and Mounita added their voices to the homage.
A tribal folk-dance troupe from Bankura mesmerized the audience with their traditional performance, showcasing the cultural essence Chakraborty so passionately celebrated. The festival concluded with Milan, a ritualistic closing ceremony led by Mansur Fakir, encapsulating the unity and spirit of Bengal’s folk traditions.
“We aimed to capture the vibrant essence of Arun Da’s life and legacy through this festival,” said Chowdhury. Sahajiya Utsav 2024 served as a heartfelt homage to a man whose life and work inspired countless others to connect with the soul of Bengal’s heritage.
