The 161st birth anniversary of Panchanan Barma was observed across North Bengal on Saturday with solemn tributes and commemorative programmes from Malda to Cooch Behar.
In Siliguri, Mayor Goutam Deb paid floral tribute at a statue of the Rajbanshi icon. Political leaders, social organisations and admirers across districts marked the occasion by remembering his contributions to social reform and education.
At a private programme, noted researcher and admirer Girindranath Barman offered floral tributes at Panchanan Barma’s portrait at his residence in Cooch Behar observing the birth moment at 7.30 a.m. Speakers highlighted his role in shaping the self-identity of the Rajbanshi community and stressed the need to carry his ideals to the younger generation.
In Malda’s Gazole, the Trinamul Congress and its youth wing organised a rally to mark the occasion. The procession covered key roads before leaders offered homage at his statue at Korlavita More. Among those present were Block Youth Trinamul president Surajit Saha and Panchayat Samiti vice-president Shikha Mondal.
In a tribute note, writer Bimal Das described Panchanan Barma as the “Awakener of North Bengal” and a torchbearer of self-respect. “Born in 1866, he was not only an accomplished lawyer but the architect of social consciousness and the pioneer of Rajbanshi identity,” Das wrote. Referring to the formation of the Kshatriya Samiti in 1910, he noted that Barma believed, “Education is strength, organisation is dignity,” and dedicated his life to social upliftment.
Though honoured with the title “Rai Saheb” during British rule, Das said, Panchanan Barma remains a symbol of inspiration and dignity in the hearts of the people of North Bengal.