A bronze bust of Raghunath Choudhary, one of Assam’s most cherished literary icons and the beloved “Bihagi Kavi”, is set to be unveiled at Bihagi Nagar in Narengi–Birkuchi. 

• The bust, crafted under the leadership of Dr Chagendra Usendi of Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh, and funded by the Raj Bhavan, will be inaugurated by Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka. 
• This event is being organised jointly by the Greater Birkuchi Sahitya Sabha and the Bust Construction Committee, accompanied by an exhibition of the poet’s personal belongings, the release of a booklet titled Raghunath, and a cultural programme.

Early Life and Foundation of a Literary Vision

• Born in 1879 in Laopara village of the undivided Kamrup district, Raghunath Choudhary received his early education in Barpeta and later in Guwahati. 
• Growing up amidst the natural beauty of Assam, he developed a profound love for birds, rural life, nature, and Assamese culture, which later became the lifeblood of his poetry. 
• His writing—rich with melody, imagery, and patriotic fervour—brought Assamese literature into a new era of lyrical modernity.

Bihagi Nagar: The Ground of Creativity and Self-Reliance

• During his years in Birkuchi, Choudhary lived a self-sustained life, establishing oil mills, cultivating crops, and inspiring Assamese people to embrace agricultural self-reliance. 
• Surrounded by nature’s tranquillity, he composed many of his finest works, including his celebrated poem “Dahikatora” (1931).
• The area, now known as Bihagi Nagar, carries his legacy as the “Poet of Birds,” a title that reflects his deep affection for the natural world.

Literary Contributions

• Raghunath Choudhary is known for his distinct poetic style marked by: melodious rhythm, vivid natural imagery, and nationalist spirit.
• His major works include:
  • “Keteki” — a poetry collection that earned literary acclaim
  • “Beena”, “Malika” — capturing Assamese life, nature, and emotion
• He played a vital role in the Jonaki Era, a period celebrated as the literary renaissance of Assam.
• His writings earned him the affectionate title “Bihogi Kobi” (Poet of Birds), as many of his poems revolve around the harmony and beauty of natural life.

Role in Journalism, Society, and the Independence Movement

• Beyond poetry, Choudhary contributed significantly as a journalist and editor, advocating for:
• social reform, linguistic identity, education, and preservation of indigenous culture.
• He actively participated in the Indian independence movement and was imprisoned by the British for his contributions. 
• He presided over the 1936 Tezpur session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, reinforcing his stature as a cultural leader.

Recognition and Enduring Legacy

Due to his profound influence, he was honoured as the “Bihogi Koobi of Assam”, a figure who merged artistic brilliance with patriotic sensitivity. His legacy continues to shape:

• school curricula,
• cultural programmes,
• literary festivals, and
• public memory across Assam.
  

Raghunath Choudhary passed away in 1967, but his ideas of self-reliance, love for nature, and pride in Assamese identity continue to inspire generations. 

The unveiling of his bronze bust serves not only as a tribute to his achievements but also as a reminder of the intellectual and cultural legacy that defines Assam.

Exam Hook – Prelims (Statement MCQ)

Consider the following statements regarding Raghunath Choudhary:

1. He is popularly known as Bihogi Kobi because many of his writings focus on birds and nature.
   
2. He presided over a session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha in 1936.
   
3. His famous poem Dahikatora was composed in the Birkuchi region of Assam.
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

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