Bishnu Prasad Rabha – The Kalaguru Who Shaped Assam’s Cultural Identity

Bishnu Prasad Rabha: Kalaguru of Assam, Cultural Icon & 2009 India Post Stamp Tribute

Bishnu Prasad Rabha (1909–1969), affectionately known as Kalaguru (Master of the Arts), was a multifaceted genius whose contributions to Assamese culture, literature, music, and revolutionary politics remain unparalleled. Born in Dhaka, Bengal Presidency, Rabha’s early life was steeped in artistic and intellectual pursuits, which later evolved into a lifelong mission to uplift the oppressed through cultural expression.

A true polymath, Rabha was a poet, painter, actor, dancer, music composer, and political activist. His works reflected the soul of Assam—its folklore, struggles, and aspirations. He believed that art should serve the people and used his talents to promote social justice and unity.

Rabha was a key figure in the Revolutionary Communist Party of India, advocating for a classless society. His songs and poems, written in Assamese and Bengali, often carried themes of resistance, equality, and love for the motherland. He coined the term “People’s Culture”, emphasizing that art must be rooted in the lives of common people.

His musical compositions, such as “Bano Kobang” and “Mor Desh”, blended tribal rhythms with classical melodies, creating a unique Assamese soundscape. Rabha’s theatrical performances and paintings also depicted the socio-political realities of his time.

To honor his birth centenary, India Post issued a ₹5 commemorative stamp on 31 January 2009. Designed by Shri Brahm Prakash and printed by the Security Printing Press, Hyderabad, the stamp features Rabha’s portrait with artistic motifs symbolizing his diverse contributions. A total of 400,000 stamps were released in multicolor wet offset format.

Trivia Points

• Born on 31 January 1909 in Dhaka, Bengal Presidency.
• Known as Kalaguru, meaning “Master of the Arts.”
• Studied at Calcutta University, earned a BSc degree.
• Joined the Revolutionary Communist Party of India.
• Coined the term “People’s Culture.”
• Composed iconic songs like “Bano Kobang” and “Mor Desh.”
• Acted in Assamese plays and films.
• Advocated for tribal rights and social equality.
• His death anniversary is observed as Rabha Divas in Assam.
• Stamp issued in 2009 for his birth centenary.
• Stamp printed in multicolor wet offset, no watermark.
• Designed by Brahm Prakash, a noted philatelic artist.
• His son Prithiraj Rava is a cultural activist and politician.
• Called Sainik Silpi by Marxists for his revolutionary art.
• Died on 20 June 1969 in Tezpur, Assam.

Which work of Bishnu Prasad Rabha inspires you most—his songs, poems, or paintings? Share your thoughts in the comments below.Subscribe to our newsletter for more stories on India’s cultural legends and commemorative stamps.