Sunamganj:The 105th birth anniversary of the legendary Baul mystic and lyricist Durbin Shah, known as Gyaner Sagar (Ocean of Wisdom), is being observed today with due respect and solemnity in his birthplace Chhatak upazila of Sunamganj district.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ahmed Manjurul Haque Chowdhury Pavel, Cultural Officer of the District Shilpakala Academy, stated that the Academy celebrated the 105th birth anniversary of the mystic poet and Baul practitioner with due solemnity and respect.
Born on November 2, 1920, at Taramani Tila in Nowarai village of Chhatak, Durbin Shah holds a distinguished place in Bengali mystic music. His profound lyrics and soulful compositions explored the mysteries of human existence, life and death, the search for the Creator, the essence of the soul, and the universal bond of human love.
Durbin Shah's music repertoire was diverse, including Baul, Sufi, Marfati, Bhatiali, Jari, Sari, devotional, patriotic, and regional songs. His philosophical themes covered topics such as the human body, self-realisation, spiritual guidance, and the relationship between the human soul and the Divine.
A defining moment in his career occurred in 1967 when he visited England at the invitation of the expatriate Bengali community. He was accompanied by renowned Baul mystic Shah Abdul Karim. In England, music enthusiasts were deeply impressed by his lyrics, melodies, and spiritual depth, bestowing upon him the title Gyaner Sagar.
Durbin Shah passed away on February 15, 1977, at the age of 57. His musical and philosophical legacy endures as a vital part of the cultural heritage of Sunamganj and the broader Bengali-speaking community. Today, as Sunamganj commemorates the birth anniversary of its illustrious son, his timeless songs continue to resonate with listeners, conveying messages of love, humanity, and spiritual enlightenment across generations.