Who is Birendra Krishna Bhadra? He was an influential figure in Indian radio broadcasting, theatre, and Bengali culture. Known for his exceptional work as a narrator, playwright, actor, and theatre director, he made significant contributions to All India Radio (AIR), especially with his celebrated recitation of Mahishasura Mardini. This iconic radio show has become a timeless part of Mahalaya, the day that marks the beginning of Durga Puja celebrations in Bengal. His work continues to resonate with audiences even today.
Who is Birendra Krishna Bhadra (1905–1991)? The Iconic Voice Behind Mahalaya
Early Life and Education (Who is Birendra Krishna Bhadra?)
Born on August 4, 1905, in Ahiritola, North Calcutta (now Kolkata), Birendra Krishna Bhadra hailed from a distinguished family. His father, Roy Bahadur Kalikrishna Bhadra, was a linguist proficient in 14 languages, and his mother was Sarala Bala Devi. Bhadra’s ancestral home was in Uthali village in Satkhira district, now in Bangladesh. He grew up in a household rich in literary and intellectual influences, which paved the way for his creative pursuits. After completing his early education, he graduated from the prestigious Scottish Church College in 1928.
Career at All India Radio
Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s career took flight at All India Radio, Kolkata, where he became a prominent voice in radio dramas and productions. He adapted and produced several radio plays, leaving a lasting impact on the medium. His crowning achievement, however, was the narration of Mahishasura Mardini, a two-hour program aired every Mahalaya morning since 1931. The script for this legendary program was written by Bani Kumar, and the music was composed by Pankaj Kumar Mallick. The show, which narrates the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura, continues to be an essential part of Bengali culture and the Durga Puja festivities.
The Mahishasura Mardini Legacy (Who is Birendra Krishna Bhadra?)
Bhadra’s resonant voice in Mahishasura Mardini became an integral part of Bengali households. The program’s Sanskrit recitation and devotional songs create an atmosphere of reverence and anticipation for the Durga Puja festival. So beloved was his rendition that in 1976, when AIR replaced him with Uttam Kumar, a famous Bengali actor, the audience’s backlash was immediate. The original version featuring Birendra Krishna Bhadra was quickly reinstated and has remained the standard ever since.
What is Mahalaya? Significance, Celebrations, and Rituals Explained
Contributions to Theatre and Literature
Beyond radio, Birendra Krishna Bhadra was a key figure in Bengali theatre. He wrote and directed several plays, including Mess No. 49 and Sahib Bibi Gulam, a stage adaptation of Bimal Mitra’s novel. He also wrote the screenplay for the 1955 film Nishiddha Phal and adapted works like Subarna Golak and Shahjahan for radio. His radio drama Shahjahan, featuring the legendary Chhabi Biswas, remains a classic.
Bhadra’s literary contributions extended to publishing books, including Hitopadesa and Garstin Place’er Saheb Bhoot. His deep understanding of Indian culture and his storytelling ability solidified his position as a multifaceted creative.
Legacy and Recognition
Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s legacy remains inseparable from Bengali culture, especially during Mahalaya. His recitation of Mahishasura Mardini has become a cultural treasure, passed down through generations. In 2006, Saregama India Ltd. recognized his immense contribution by awarding his daughter, Sujata Bhadra, a royalty for his work.
In 2019, a short film titled Birendra Krishna Bhadra – The Voice Since 1936 was released, paying tribute to his remarkable journey. Furthermore, the 2019 biopic Mahalaya, written and directed by Soumik Sen, portrayed the 1976 controversy, with Subhasish Mukherjee as Bhadra and Jisshu Sengupta as Uttam Kumar.
Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s voice continues to echo through the airwaves each Mahalaya morning, connecting millions to their spiritual and cultural roots. His work in radio, theatre, and literature is a testament to his versatility and enduring influence on Bengali culture. His contributions, especially through Mahishasura Mardini, ensure that his legacy will remain timeless.