KISHOR BARTA (Bengali)
Agartala, Tripura
The various forms of literature express the wealth of human feelings through artistic arrangements. In poetry, life’s essence is revealed through clarity, hints, metaphors, nuances, or silence. Some spontaneous writings about Bhabani Prasad Majumdar have been published in ‘Kishore Barta.’ As I thought about writing something on this, it occurred to me that poetry resides in consciousness, and the mind finds its abode in poetry. In over a hundred writings, ninety-nine people have expressed their feelings about one person, demonstrating such deep respect and humble affection for an unseen individual that it moved me deeply. Reading these writings, I couldn’t help but think that everyone’s love for him would surely make his works feel envious.
Typically, in this kind of review, each writer’s views and thoughts about the person in question are expressed through their works. However, many distinguished individuals have shared their thoughts. The space is limited, and I also have limitations in doing justice to each one. Therefore, if we discuss the published writings in a slightly different way, we can better appreciate Bhabani Prasad Majumdar’s literary talent and diverse personality.
Bhabani Prasad Majumdar has found a place in the hearts of every writer as a kind and simple person. Some have felt a fatherly intimacy with him, where students were like his children, and humility was his adornment. These aspects of his personality have become the offerings of nearly every writer’s dedication. To several people, he was like a guardian-friend, an exemplar of a beautiful blend of reverence and camaraderie—he was a shelter of utmost trust. As a writer, he was unwavering in providing this trust. No one was disappointed when they asked him for a piece of writing. Even when unknown people called him requesting his work, his ‘self’ was not hurt. His dedication to literature was such that he recited poems over the phone so that those who had difficulty meeting him in person could still receive his writings. Truly, this amiability is remarkable.
His rhymes and poems effortlessly captivate readers and listeners. The ‘understanding and not understanding’ poignancy that hides within enjoyment has been expressed and attempted by many. Encountering the depth of the poet’s life philosophy, the reader’s mind too wishes to touch that feeling. This poet awakens that sentiment—a sentiment in search of which many tireless travelers tread the dusty paths.
The realm over whichh Bhabani Prasad Majumdar reigns supreme is rhyme. Primarily, every living particle in the lives of children and adolescents seems to have taken shape through his pen. In this issue of ‘Kishore Barta,’ each writer wanted to duly mention his extraordinary ability to understand the desires of children’s minds. A vast portion of his work is dedicated to the thoughts of children. He sometimes gave form to these thoughts in rhythmic patterns and at other times in simple language. His use of words in this context was particularly powerful. The truths he expressed in his rhymes were aptly supported by his choice of words. In these writings of homage, every writer has openly mentioned their feelings. Each one held immense admiration for the poet—centered around Bhabani Prasad Majumdar’s profound life insight. Many wrote from a guardian’s perspective, expressing gratitude that their children’s childhood atmosphere was touched by such wealth. From beyond the geographical boundaries of India, a mother wrote about her feelings of joy—the source of that joy being this poet’s rhymes and poems. Bengali-speaking people from various parts of the country have expressed their feelings of appreciation and love in every piece of this issue. The poet’s sharp intellect, far-sightedness, and firm clarity have turned his literature into the voice of all people. The vast world of little boys and girls, where a dream-weaver of the future resides, and understanding their joys and sorrows is so crucial, so important to be their mental companion—these sentiments he expressed with such liveliness and intensity, earning unique recognition in each writer’s tribute. Alongside, his writing, though of this time, transcends it and elevates the readers’ mental sphere.
He has been spoken about in a slightly different way by those who have brought Bhabani Prasad Majumdar’s biography to readers. This is an extremely valuable initiative, which will be a particularly important resource for any interested readers and researchers.
Before concluding the discussion, I must thank the editor of this issue of 'Kishore Barta,' who has undertaken this remarkable initiative. A noteworthy feature of this issue is its variety of topics. Even though the writings are about one person, each writer can claim uniqueness in expressing their personal feelings. The editor's extraordinary plan to consider the person and his works from different perspectives is especially praiseworthy.
May people continue their journey of truth and beauty by holding hands with one another in this manner—best wishes.
