The spirit of Poila Boishakh came alive in Kolkata as the Serum Thalassemia Prevention Federation hosted a cultural evening that seamlessly wove together nostalgia, music, and social awareness. Held at Mahajati Sadan on April 18, the event – titled Ek Sondhya Bahu Sur – marked the Bengali New Year with a tribute to two of Bengali cinema’s most revered icons: Uttam Kumar and Soumitra Chatterjee.
A Calendar Rooted in Legacy
This year’s Bengali calendar, unveiled at the event, is dedicated to the enduring legacy of Uttam Kumar and Soumitra Chatterjee. Featuring a carefully curated collection of photographs – from iconic film stills to rare glimpses of their personal lives – the calendar also includes vintage movie posters, offering a visual journey through the golden era of Bengali cinema. The tribute gains added significance as 2026 marks the birth centenary of Uttam Kumar, fondly remembered as the Mahanayak.
Dance-Drama Brings Legends to Life
A highlight of the evening was Dui Purush (Two Legends), a specially crafted dance-drama based on a script by Sanjib Acharya. Blending narrative storytelling with film songs, the performance explored the personal and professional journeys of the two stalwarts, shedding light on their camaraderie and cultural impact.
Music Across Generations
The celebrations continued with Boshekher Baithaki, a musical concert that traced the evolution of Bengali music – from Puratani to contemporary band sounds. The stage featured an eclectic line-up of artists, including Srikumar Chatterjee, Nachiketa Chakraborty, Sidhu, Pousali Banerjee, and Swakhar Basu. The evening was anchored by Debashish Basu. The performances spanned genres and eras, featuring beloved songs such as Puraton Holo Goto and Chai Paan, Chai Paan, Kichhu Din Mone Mone, Mon Matal Sanjh Sakal, and Krishna Tomar Songe Jabo, among others – each evoking a distinct phase of Bengal’s musical journey.
Beyond Celebration: A Cause at the Core
While the evening revelled in Bangaliana, its purpose extended beyond cultural celebration. “Calendars and Bengali music are deeply intertwined with the Bengali New Year. There is also a sense of nostalgia – a longing for days gone by,” said Sanjib Acharya. “For several years now, we have celebrated this spirit at the onset of the Bengali year. Our primary objective is to raise awareness about the prevention of thalassemia—this event is not organised solely for entertainment.” By merging heritage with advocacy, the evening stood as a reminder that culture can be both celebratory and purposeful – honouring the past while addressing pressing concerns of the present.
