The 40th death anniversary of renowned bard and folk poet Bijoy Sarkar will be observed on Thursday. He passed away on this day in 1985 in India due to old age complications, and was laid to rest in Koutia, West Bengal. His two sons, Kajol Adhikari and Badol Adhikari, live in India.
Bijoy Sarkar, born on 20 February 1903 in Dumdi village of Narail Sadar Upazila, was the son of Nabakrisna Adhikari and Himalaya Devi. He studied up to Class Nine, though some accounts say he completed matriculation. His wives, Binapani and Promoda Adhikari, have both passed away.
A lyricist, composer and singer, Bijoy Sarkar wrote more than 1,800 songs. Although his real name was Bijoy Adhikari, his mastery in melody, composition and his distinctive vocal style earned him the title “Sarkar”. He was also widely known as “Pagol Bijoy” for his spiritual, mystical style.
In 2013, he was posthumously awarded the Ekushey Padak for his contribution to the arts.
To mark the anniversary, a Bijoy Giti competition will be held at 10am at the premises of the District Shilpakala Academy. This will be followed by recitations, open performances of Bijoy Giti, laying of wreaths at his portrait, candle lighting, a discussion event and a musical session in the afternoon.
The programmes are being organised jointly by the district administration and the Bijoy Sarkar Foundation.
