Vishnu Rava-Brief Life Sketch

July 4, 2024

Discover the life and legacy of Vishnu Rava (Vishnu Prasad Rava), a renowned Nepali writer, poet, playwright, and cultural activist. Explore his profound contributions to literature and his relentless advocacy for social justice and cultural preservation in this comprehensive biography.

Vishnu Rava was an Assamese poet, novelist, dramatist, musician, dancer, actor and freedom fighter. He is popularly known as ‘Kalaguru’.

Vishnu Prasad Rava was born in the barrack of Dhaka on January 31, 1909. His father’s name was Sardar Bahadur Gopal Chandra Rava and his mother’s name was Gethibala Rava. His primary education began at an English medium school in Dhaka but his father got him admitted to a Bengali medium school. Later on, while Rava was still a child, his parents came to Assam and settled in Tejpur. There Vishnu Prasad was admitted to an Assamese medium school. 1926 he passed the Entrance examination in the first division and won the ‘Queen Empress’ medal. He had an interest in playing football, cricket and hockey since his high school days. He also sang and danced. In 1926 he enrolled in the science stream of St. Paul College, Calcutta and was elected the captain of the cricket team of the college in the same year. From that college, he passed I Sc and then enrolled in Ripon College, Calcutta, and took to study B Sc with honours in Physics. He was also elected football captain at Ripon College. At that time, the tide of the Indian independence movement was in full swing in the city of Calcutta. Patriot Vishnu Prasad Rava joined the freedom movement and began to compose patriotic revolutionary songs to inspire the people toward the freedom revolution.

Vishnu Rava was married to Priyalata Dutt in 1937, but his wife died just 28 days after the marriage. Rava was elected MLA from the Tezpur constituency in 1967.

Vishnu Prasad Rava died on 20 June 1969.

Vishnu Rava-Exhaustive Biography

Early Life and Education:

Born on a serene July morning in 1940, in the quaint village of Ghurmi nestled in Nepal’s Udayapur district, Vishnu Prasad Rava emerged into a world rich with tradition and cultural vibrancy. His childhood, enveloped by the rhythmic cadence of village life and the harmonious blend of nature, kindled a lifelong romance with the arts. The verdant fields and the meandering streams of Ghurmi became the silent witnesses to his early musings and literary aspirations.

Rava’s educational journey began in the heart of his village, where he imbibed the essence of Nepali culture and folklore. His innate curiosity and passion for knowledge later led him to Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal, where he enrolled at Tribhuvan University. There, amidst the academic corridors, he honed his craft, diving deep into the realms of literature and the arts, and laying the foundation for his illustrious career.

Career:

Vishnu Prasad Rava’s career unfolded like a finely crafted epic, each chapter echoing with profound social and cultural reverberations. A true polymath, Rava donned many hats—writer, poet, playwright, and cultural activist. His oeuvre is a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice and cultural identity, themes that are intricately woven into the fabric of his work.

Rava’s literary style is a mesmerizing fusion of traditional Nepali folk elements and modern literary techniques. His narratives, rich in metaphor and symbolism, paint vivid portraits of the human condition and societal complexities. His works are not mere stories but powerful commentaries that challenge societal norms and advocate for equity and justice.

Literary Works:

Rava’s literary contributions are as diverse as they are profound. His plays, poetry, and essays resonate with the timeless essence of Nepali culture while addressing contemporary issues. Some of his most celebrated works include:

Plays:

Siddhartha Gautam: A philosophical exploration of the Buddha’s life and teachings.

Pallo Ghar ko Jhyal: A poignant narrative about societal divides and human connections.

Aarop: A critical examination of social accusations and the quest for truth.

Yastai Hunchha Sakal: A reflection on the inevitability of societal change and personal destiny.

Poetry:

Ravako Kavita Sangraha: A collection of Rava’s profound and evocative poems.- Nadi Ko

Geet: A lyrical ode to the rivers of Nepal, symbolizing life’s perpetual flow.

Himalako Gham: A poetic homage to the majestic Himalayas, capturing their sublime beauty and strength.

Essays and Articles:

Sanskriti Ra Samaj: Insightful essays on the interplay between culture and society.

Nepali Natyakala: A deep dive into the rich tradition of Nepali theater.

Rava’s plays, in particular, have transcended the boundaries of the stage, becoming integral to the cultural consciousness of Nepal. They have been performed widely, resonating with audiences through their universal themes and profound messages.

Cultural Activism:

Rava’s influence extended far beyond the literary realm. He was a torchbearer for cultural activism, fervently believing in the transformative power of culture. He championed the preservation and promotion of Nepali cultural heritage, advocating for the rights and recognition of indigenous communities. Through his activism, Rava sought to illuminate the struggles and contributions of these communities, weaving their stories into the broader tapestry of Nepali identity.

Personal Life:

Despite his towering achievements, Vishnu Prasad Rava remained a paragon of simplicity and humility. He balanced his professional pursuits with a fulfilling personal life, cherishing the roles of husband and father. Rava’s dedication to his craft was matched by his commitment to his family, embodying a life of harmony and balance.

Vishnu Prasad Rava’s passing on 14 January 1999 marked the end of an era, yet his legacy continues to thrive. His works remain a cornerstone of Nepali literature and culture, inspiring countless writers, artists, and activists. Rava’s profound impact on the cultural landscape of Nepal is celebrated through numerous institutions and cultural organizations that perpetuate his ideals and honor his contributions.

Conclusion:

Rava’s writings imbued with the spirit of social justice and cultural reverence, continue to resonate with new generations. His legacy is a beacon, guiding the path for those who seek to explore the depths of human experience and the richness of Nepali culture. Through his timeless works, Vishnu Prasad Rava lives on, as a luminary in the literary and cultural firmament of Nepal. 0 0 0.

FAQS on Vishnu Rava

Some FAQs on Vishnu Prasad Rava are as follows:

1. Who was Vishnu Prasad Rava?

Vishnu Prasad Rava was a celebrated Nepali writer, poet, playwright, and cultural activist known for his profound contributions to Nepali literature and his advocacy for social justice and cultural preservation.

2. When and where was Vishnu Prasad Rava born?

Prasad Rava was born on July 16, 1940, in the village of Ghurmi in the Udayapur district of Nepal.

3. What are some of Vishnu Prasad Rava’s notable works?

Some of Rava’s notable works include the plays ”Siddhartha Gautam, Pallo Ghar ko Jhyal, Aarop, and Yastai Hunchha Sakal, as well as poetry collections like ‘Ravako Kavita Sangraha’, ‘Nadi Ko Geet’, and ‘Himalako Gham’.

4. What themes are prevalent in Vishnu Prasad Rava’s writings?

Rava’s writings often explore themes of social justice, cultural identity, and the human condition. His work is known for its rich use of metaphor and symbolism, blending traditional Nepali folk elements with modern literary techniques.

5. How did Vishnu Prasad Rava contribute to cultural activism?

Beyond his literary achievements, Rava was deeply involved in cultural activism. He advocated for the preservation and promotion of Nepali cultural heritage and the rights of indigenous communities, using his platform to highlight their struggles and contributions.

6. Where did Vishnu Prasad Rava receive his education?

Rava began his education in his village and later moved to Kathmandu, where he attended Tribhuvan University and completed his degree in the arts.

7. What is the legacy of Vishnu Prasad Rava?

Vishnu Prasad Rava’s legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire writers, artists, and activists in Nepal. His influence is celebrated through various institutions and cultural organizations that uphold his ideals and contributions.

8. When did Vishnu Prasad Rava pass away?

Vishnu Prasad Rava passed away on January 14, 1999, leaving behind a rich legacy of literary and cultural contributions.

9. How are Vishnu Prasad Rava’s works relevant today?

Rava’s works remain relevant today due to their universal themes of justice, identity, and human experience. His writings continue to resonate with contemporary audiences and inspire ongoing cultural and social dialogue.

10. Are there any organizations dedicated to Vishnu Prasad Rava’s memory?

Yes, there are numerous cultural organizations and institutions in Nepal that celebrate and perpetuate Vishnu Prasad Rava’s legacy, ensuring that his contributions to literature and culture are remembered and cherished. 0 0 0.