Bishnu Rabha was born on January 31, 1909, in Dhaka, then a part of undivided India.
His father was Gopal Chandra Rabha, an articulated personality who was endowed with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his distinguished service.
His mother was Gathi, an ideal homemaker, who, in her later years, exhibited her skills in running the big family.
Bishnu Rabha, nicknamed Sutu, was the eighth child in his family. His father had a strong passion for musical performances and engaged renowned figures from the Bengali musical world such as Ustad Mati Miyan, Kalachand, and Gauhar Jaan to mentor young Bishnu Rabha.
Gopal Chandra Rabha passed away suddenly due to a heart attack while in the Dhaka market. This unexpected event compelled the family to relocate to Tezpur.
Significance of Bishnu Prasad Rabha:
He significantly shaped modern Assamese society by introducing a new awareness among the masses, fostering interaction, and facilitating cultural exchange.
Rabha's advocacy for an integrated Assamese society reflected his commitment to building a unified identity, emphasizing solidarity among diverse communities.
Known for his expertise in various art forms, Rabha's abilities were honed through education and a progressive mindset, demonstrating his strong personality and cultural contributions.
Rabha's works were driven by a deep concern for marginalized and downtrodden members of society, showcasing his empathy and social awareness.
His visionary ideas were grounded in practicality, emphasizing a transformative approach to societal issues, influenced by Marxist interpretations and a commitment to democratic principles.
Rabha engaged in continuous self-scrutiny and personal evolution, navigating the cultural and ideological shifts of his time, distinct from Gandhian ideals but equally dedicated to societal change.
Early Academic and Revolutionary Journey:
Bishnu Rabha's life journey was marked by a deep intertwining of academic excellence and revolutionary zeal.
Initially studying at St. Paul's College, Rabha's nationalist activities led him to enroll at Victoria College, Cooch Behar, where he pursued Physics.
His college days not only shaped his scientific temperament but also laid the foundation for his future revolutionary endeavors.
Influence of Anna Pavlova and Revolutionary Actions:
During his time in Calcutta, Rabha had a transformative encounter with the legendary Russian ballet dancer, Anna Pavlova. Her advice to study dance forms in Indian temples deeply influenced Rabha's creative pursuits.
Meanwhile, in Cooch Behar, he continued his revolutionary activities, including hoisting the Tricolour and writing protest messages against the British Raj, actions that ultimately led to his expulsion from college and departure from Cooch Behar.
Revolutionary Spirit and Engagement with Indigenous Communities:
Settling temporarily in Tezpur, Rabha embarked on extensive travels across Assam, passionately interacting with indigenous communities.
His commitment to the indigenous tribes was exemplified in 1948 when he walked 40 km to attend a conference of Naga students at Mokokchung, showcasing his enduring revolutionary spirit.
Rabha's involvement in the Revolutionary Communist Party of India (RCPI) in 1947 invigorated his revolutionary fervor.
Popularizing the slogan 'Nangol jar mati tar' (One who owns the plough owns the land), he galvanized the masses and assumed leadership roles in North Kamrup and Goalpara.
However, his activities led to his arrest in 1952 by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who declared Assam a disturbed area due to Rabha's influence.
Political Career and Imprisonment:
Following the assimilation of RCPI into the Communist Party of India (CPI), Rabha transitioned to democratic participation.
He contested elections from Rangiya but found success in Tezpur, becoming a member of the Assam Legislative Assembly in 1969.
His outspoken views during the 1962 Chinese aggression led to his brief imprisonment, yet even behind bars at Barhampur Jail, Rabha's pen remained sharp, chronicling history with unwavering resolve.
Legacy and Cultural Impact:
Theatre Involvement:
Bishnu Rabha was closely connected with the theatre movement in Assam.
Many live performances took place at Ban Theatre in Tezpur, famously associated with Rabha.
Ban Stage, where many of Rabha's plays were staged, was designed by renowned architect Upendra Kr. Baruah.
Rabha was an accomplished actor both on stage and in films.
Film Industry Contributions:
Recognized as a film director, music composer (e.g., "Siraj"), and actor (e.g., "Era Bator Sur").
Memorable in the role of Syem in Bhupen Hazarika's "Pratidhwani".
Assisted in making the first Assamese film, "Jaymati", by Jyoti Prasad Agarwala.
Despite connections with Kolkata and Bombay's art world, Rabha chose to stay in Assam to educate the masses rather than pursue commercial success.
Versatility and Recognition:
Rabha was a versatile genius, excelling in music, acting, and dancing.
Bestowed the title "Kalaguru" by Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan at Varanasi after a Tandava dance recital.
Known for his music and acting in films like "Siraj" and "Era Bator Sur".
Created evergreen songs like "Xurore Deulore" and "Bilote Halise".
Academic Contributions:
Rabha was a serious academician and the first anthropologist of Assam.
His book "Bano-Kobang" is a valuable anthropological study of Assam's ethnic groups.
Other notable literary works include "Mising Coneng", "Sonpahi", "Axomiya Kristir Samuh Abhash", and "Atit Asom".
His academic contributions were largely ignored during his lifetime, with most works published posthumously.
Cultural Impact:
Composed numerous songs now known as "Rabha Sangeet", popular in cultural music competitions in Assam.
The state government has instituted an award in his honor for achievements in Assam's cultural and music world.
Bishnu Rabha passed away in 1969, leaving a lasting legacy in Assam. 20th June is celebrated as "Bishnu Rabha Divash" in Assam to commemorate his contributions. Bishnu Rabha's life epitomizes courage, intellect, and unwavering commitment to social justice. His contributions to Assamese culture and his role in the freedom struggle stand as a testament to his enduring legacy as a revolutionary cultural icon, whose influence continues to inspire generations in Assam and beyond.