#Title

I miss my mother the most during Durga Puja: Kumar Bishwajit
It reminds me of the beautiful days of my childhood. I always used to think how can anyone play the dhol so wonderfully.
SHAH ALAM SHAZU
Legendary singer and composer, Kumar Bishwajit has carved a special place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi audience with his melodious voice and strong personality. In a career spanning almost four decades, he has earned many prestigious awards including the ‘Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer’ in 2010.
Even with the passing of time, his songs have never lost their wonderful charm.
In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, the musical maestro shared his memories of puja and much more.
“During my childhood, Durga Puja was one of the most joyous times. I will never get those golden moment back in my life. I used to spend my Durga Puja in the village, where the festive spirit of Puja would start from 15 days before. We would make the pandals for the Puja using the sarees of our mother. I remember waiting 11 months until Durga Puja would come again and we could celebrate,” reminisced Bishwajit.
“I remember that a dhuli from Raujan would come to our neighborhood during Puja. Even today, I can clearly remember the scene of him playing the dhol . I would stand in front of him the entire time. Sometimes, I also used to play kasor plate. Seeing my obsession with the dhol and kasor , my father angrily asked me if I would grow up to become a dhuli . He even hit me once, because of this obsession,” continued the artiste.
Smiling fondly, as he recalled the memories, Kumar Bishwajit noted how even though he did not grow up to become dhuli , one always accompanies him on stage whenever he performs.
“It reminds me of the beautiful days of my childhood. I always used to think how can anyone play the dhol so wonderfully. That’s why I have an obsession with the instrument,” added Bishwajit.
Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, the artiste continued, “I miss my mother the most during festivals, especially when it is time for Durga Puja. She used to cook many delicious dishes, including Pachon (a dish made from a mix of vegetables). The taste of this dish still lingers on my tongue. Now, Puja comes every year, but I can’t eat my mother’s cooking. I can no longer take blessing from my mother during Durga Puja. What can be worse than that? I miss her deeply.”
Somewhat emotionally, the artiste recalled how his mother would always wait for him to return home, before she would sit down for a meal.
“We would eat together. I used to inform my mother whenever I would go out. This became one of my habits. Sometimes, when I return home, I still look for my mother. Then, I remember that she is no longer with us. I hope she stays happy, wherever she is. Puja is coming again, but she is not with me to celebrate. However, I believe that my mother is watching over me and sending her love and blessings for me,” concluded Kumar Bishwajit.
Translated by Antara Raisa