The Royal Guardian of Panchpargania Culture: Remembering Raja Upendranath Singh Dev
When we think of kings, we often imagine grand fortresses and political conquests, but Raja Upendranath Singh Dev of the Silli Pargana left behind a much more enduring legacy: he is the primary reason mediaeval Panchpargania literature and music survive today. He was not only a compassionate leader but a deeply dedicated patron of the arts.
A Prince With a Passion for Rhythm
Born into the Silli royal family on February 28, 1910, to Raja Pashupati Nath Singh Dev, Upendranath's birth was celebrated with immense joy, charity, and open treasuries. From a young age, he was sharp, fiercely energetic, and agile. While he formally studied only up to the 10th grade, his true calling lay far beyond the classroom walls. As a child, he would secretly play the *dhol-nagara* (traditional drums) and sing, eventually abandoning his formal studies to fully immerse himself in music and literature.To master his craft, he trained under some of the most renowned musical maestros of his era, including Munir Khan, Jahangir Khan, and Saral Banerjee. This rigorous training made him an absolute expert in the intricate musical rhythms of *tal* and *matra*.
A King of the People
After the passing of his father, Upendranath ascended to the throne, taking over the governance of Silli's 84 *mouzas* (villages). Married to Vidyutlata Devi (after the tragic early passing of his first wife) and a father to four children, he was viewed as a savior by the poor and needy. His reign was characterized by immense generosity, the building of temples, and a deep devotion to his subjects' welfare.The Cultural Renaissance in Ranchi
Due to family disputes, the Raja eventually moved to Ranchi, a shift that became a major turning point for regional literature. In Ranchi, he connected with legendary literary figures like Radhakrishna, Bhavabhuti Mishra, and Dr. Kamil Bulke. It was this powerful association that shifted his focus entirely toward the preservation of folk and formal literature.Realizing the wealth of local culture that was at risk of being lost, he returned to Silli and gathered local singers (*Jhumaria* and *Bhadaria*), artists, and scholars. To institutionalize this preservation effort, he established the 'Pashupatinath Sangitalaya', a hub where local experts gathered to teach music theory and collect the lost manuscripts of ancient Panchpargania poets like Gaurangia, Binand Singh, and Narottam.
Publishing the Soul of Panchpargania
Perhaps his greatest tangible achievement was his meticulous organization of these ancient songs based on their specific rhythms and melodies. In 1956, through the Sukrit Press in Ranchi, he published two monumental books:* 'Adi Jhumair Sangeet': A brilliant compilation featuring the historic *Jhumair* compositions of Gaurangia and Binand Singh.
* 'Tal Manjari': A detailed, comprehensive guide that classified various local songs according to their precise musical rhythms.
A Golden Era of Regional Theater
Beyond literature, Raja Upendranath was a pioneer of the stage. He founded the 'Dramatic Club' in Silli, which went on to stage over 100 Bengali and Hindi plays. His club’s performances were so exceptional that it was awarded a prestigious gold medal. During local festivals like Karam, Teej, and Jituwa, he would bring his courtyards to life by hosting traditional music and dance gatherings.A Legacy That Lives On
Tragically, Raja Upendranath Singh Dev passed away suddenly on September 29, 1960, on the holy day of Durga Navami. His untimely death left the people of the Panchpargana region deeply orphaned and saddened.Today, Raja Upendranath is remembered not just as a king who ruled over lands, but as the ultimate pride and preserver of Panchpargania heritage. Every time a traditional *Jhumair* melody is sung today with its perfect rhythm and beat, it echoes the lifelong dedication of a king who truly loved his culture.
