THE ACTORS AND ACTRESSES, be they from cinema, television or stage, become popular among the audiences with their sterling performances. Likewise, everybody knows the singers who create melodious gems, while those excelling with the paint and brush etch their original images in the minds of people. In doing so, several of these actors/actresses, singers, artists, or for that matter playwrights, directors and filmmakers become cult figures among the general masses. However, what they need to show their talent is some platform or the help of some socio-cultural institutions or organisations. And behind such institutions and organisations are some dedicated souls, who with their tireless endeavour, help these cultural performers occupy a pride of place among the people.

Tarani Kumar Deka is one of those hardworking cultural activists and organisers, offering yeoman’s service to the propagation of Assamese culture. Originally hailing from Majgaon near Baihata Chariali in Kamrup district, Deka is now a permanent resident of Lakhinagar, Guwahati and has been associated with many a socio-cultural organisation in the city. It was in 1984 that the Greater Japorigog Rongali Bihu Sanmilan was started by Deka, along with some like-minded, enthusiastic people, and he has since then been serving it as the president. Over the years, Greater Japorigog Rongali Bihu Sanmilan has become one of the top Bihutolis of Assam and it had celebrated its Silver Jubilee in 2008 in a befitting manner.

Deka was also instrumental in the establishment of Nayanpur Rajohuwa Namghar near Ganeshguri, while he is also a front-ranking official of the Japorigog Durga Puja committee. Also involved with a number of local schools and other socio-cultural organisations, Deka has received various awards and recognition for his work.

Now, this relentless cultural worker is busy giving shape to his dream with the help of some of his well-wishers and friends. It is a cultural complex in the Dispur area of the city, where the upcoming generation will be acquainted with the variegated Assamese folk culture. There will be provision for learning and training in different streams of Assamese culture, so that youngsters get to know about their roots.

The RG Baruah Kalakshetra at Nursery, near Ganeshguri is where the Greater Japorigog Rongali Bihu Sanmilan is being organised since its inception. For the last couple of years, Bhogali Bihu has also been organised there in a grand manner, with Deka and others playing a pivotal role.

Deka is also a firm believer of bringing back peace in the trouble-torn Assam through a flurry of cultural activities that, in his words, “surely soothen the mind and soul of everybody, leading them to the path of progress”. People like Deka, who was also honoured at the Assam Sports and Cultural Festival for his organisational skills, can work wonders in creating the right ambience for the development of culture in the State, and as long as they are there, one can only hope for the best.

Kamal Kr Bhagawati