On the serene banks of the Swarnrekha River, where Jharkhand and West Bengal meet, lies a world enriched with the rhythms of tradition and the voices of change. Here, we had the pleasure of meeting an extraordinary duo—Thakur Das (aged 40) and Ashtami (aged 15). Despite their age difference, they complement each other in perfect harmony, blending wisdom and youthful exuberance in their music.
Thakur Das, a composer and lyricist, pens songs that shed light on pressing social and environmental issues, while Ashtami’s melodious voice breathes life into his creations. Together, they are a testament to the power of folk music to educate, inspire, and unite.
Thakur Das composes his songs in Panchparganiya, a regional language spoken in parts of Ranchi, including Bundu, Tamad, Silli, Raahe, Sonahatu, and Angada. Just as the land of Panchparganiya is unified, so is its language—a beautiful blend that resonates deeply with the people of the region.
The songs are deeply rooted in the everyday lives of the community, addressing themes like water and air pollution, the disappearance of sacred mangroves, and the need to preserve natural resources. Thakur Das’s music serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity, offering solutions through awareness while honoring the cultural roots of his people.
As we sat on the riverbank, Thakur Das began singing a heartfelt tribute to the Swarnrekha River, a lifeline for the region:
Dhania dhania nadiyaan, Swarnrekha nadiyaan
(Our river Swarnrekha is great)
Radhu, Kanchi, Shankh, Koyal raur sabhek nadiyaan
(Radhu, Kanchi, Shankh, Koyal all are our rivers)
Nadi bachawa dada naala bachawa, nadi k paani suikh gele pran buchawa
(Oh humans, save the river, or else it will become impossible to save lives)
Safa rakha nadi naala, sabhe mili juli
(Let’s come together and keep the rivers and streams clean)
The lyrics, coupled with the raw emotion in Ashtami’s voice, left us spellbound. It was a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect the natural world—a message delivered not through lectures but through the universal language of music.
Thakur Das’s connection to music began in his childhood, despite opposition from his father, who worried about the viability of a career in the arts. But Thakur Das followed his heart, and today, his songs carry a depth that reflects his resilience and passion.
Recalling his father’s apprehension, Thakur Das shared, “He wasn’t against music, but he was afraid I wouldn’t make a living out of it.” Now, as we listen to his creations, it’s clear that his defiance has enriched not just his life but the lives of all who hear him.
For Thakur Das, music is a means to educate and transform. He dreams of a day when he can perform alongside his children on a respectable stage, sharing the values of love, kindness, and environmental stewardship.
His songs, often accompanied by vibrant dance forms, create an unforgettable visual and auditory experience. Dancers adorned in traditional clothing and accessories move in perfect synchronization, enhancing the storytelling and adding another layer of beauty to the performance.
Ashtami, his young disciple, embodies hope for the future. With her dedication and talent, she ensures that the traditions of Panchparganiya folk music will not fade but evolve, carrying the essence of her culture into the next generation.
Thakur Das and Ashtami’s partnership is a shining example of how folk music can be both a celebration of heritage and a call to action. Their songs not only entertain but also educate, bringing communities together to reflect on critical issues and work towards positive change.
On the banks of the Swarnrekha River, surrounded by lush greenery and the hum of life, their music reminds us of the deep connection between humanity and nature. It is a call to preserve what we have before it’s too late—a melody of responsibility, resilience, and hope.
As their voices echoed through the valley, it was impossible not to feel inspired. Thakur Das and Ashtami are not just artists; they are torchbearers of a tradition that speaks to the soul and seeks to create a better world.
