Bihar Cabinet Greenlights Rs 87 Crore Music College in Dumraon Honoring Ustad Bismillah Khan
The Bihar state cabinet has granted administrative approval for the establishment of a prestigious music college in Dumraon, Buxar district, named after the legendary Bharat Ratna awardee Ustad Bismillah Khan. The sanctioned outlay for this ambitious cultural project stands at a substantial Rs 87 crore, marking a significant enhancement from previous proposals.
Comprehensive Infrastructure Development Plan
The allocated funds will be strategically utilized for constructing state-of-the-art academic and administrative buildings, comprehensive furnishing, developing internal road networks, and erecting a secure boundary wall around the proposed college campus. This revised comprehensive plan has effectively replaced an earlier proposal of Rs 14 crore under a state scheme, which has now been officially cancelled following the cabinet's clearance of the more expansive vision.
Educational Opportunities and Cultural Significance
With the establishment of this specialized institution, students from Bihar and neighboring states will gain unprecedented access to formal education in various musical disciplines, with particular emphasis on Indian classical traditions that were so masterfully embodied by the shehnai maestro himself. The college is poised to become a premier destination for aspiring musicians seeking authentic training in traditional Indian music forms.
Local Administration and Community Response
Dumraon Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rakesh Kumar enthusiastically welcomed the cabinet decision, describing it as "a major cultural milestone" for the region. He emphasized that establishing the music college in Dumraon, the actual birthplace of Ustad Bismillah Khan, represents a profound source of pride that will firmly position the town on the national cultural map.
Music enthusiasts across Dumraon have expressed overwhelming happiness following the announcement. Jagdamba Singh, an accomplished tabla player and respected music teacher in Dumraon, shared his perspective: "For years, we have collectively dreamed of such an institution materializing in Dumraon. This visionary project will undoubtedly inspire young musicians while ensuring that Bismillah Khan sahab's invaluable legacy remains vibrantly alive for future generations."
Expert Appreciation and Cultural Impact Assessment
Renowned researcher and author Murli Manohar Srivastava, who has dedicated over 35 years to studying Bismillah Khan's life and musical contributions, extended heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for what he characterized as a truly historic decision. Srivastava elaborated: "This college will undoubtedly emerge as a formidable center for learning and training in Indian classical music. By establishing it specifically in Dumraon, we are providing local talent with a legitimate national platform while honoring the town's unique musical heritage."
Echoing this sentiment, Ramji Mishra, a distinguished Dhrupad singer and esteemed artist of the Dumraon Gharana tradition, asserted that this strategic move will substantially strengthen Bihar's cultural identity while proving to be a transformative milestone for music lovers throughout the region and beyond.
The establishment of the Ustad Bismillah Khan Music College represents more than just an educational institution—it symbolizes a profound commitment to preserving and promoting India's rich musical heritage while creating meaningful opportunities for artistic development in eastern India.
