Raghuveer Narayan also known as Raghubir Narayan, was a proficient poet in both Bhojpuri and English languages, as well as a valiant freedom fighter. His Bhojpuri composition, Batohiya, achieved the same level of prominence as Vande Mataram and is held in high regard as the National Song of India in the Bhojpuri dialect.
Early Life and Education
Raghuveer Narayan was born on the 31st of October 1884 in Nayaganv village, located in the Saran district of Bihar. He received his primary education in Chhapra and pursued his higher education at Patna College, where he gained recognition for his English poetry from his British professors. The majority of his poetic works were written during his college years, which spanned from 1902 to 1905. After completing his Bachelor of Arts, he served as the private secretary of King Krityanand Singh of Banaili Estate in the Purnia district of Bihar. In 1952 and 1953, the Bihar government honored him with the Sahityasevi puraskar award.
Literary Contributions
Raghubir Narayan was a prolific writer and poet, and his works covered a wide range of topics, including social issues, and human emotion. He wrote numerous poems, stories, and novels in the Bhojpuri language, which were highly regarded for their literary value and relevance to Bhojpuri culture.
Some of his notable works include “Batohiya,” a play that deals with the issues faced. Batohiya received the same response as “Vande Matram” by native bhojpuri speakers.
In addition to his literary works, Raghubir Narayan was also actively involved in promoting Bhojpuri language and culture. He was a member of several organizations that worked towards the preservation and promotion of Bhojpuri language, and he also played a key role in organizing Bhojpuri cultural events.
Legacy
Raghubir Narayan’s contributions to Bhojpuri literature and culture have been widely recognized and celebrated. He was the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Sahityasevi Puraskar (1952-53).
His works continue to inspire and influence Bhojpuri writers and readers, and he is regarded as a towering figure in Bhojpuri literature. His contributions have also helped in the recognition and acceptance of Bhojpuri language and culture on a wider scale.