Content Details

1.1 Identification of the element

Performing arts

1.2 Name of the element, as used by the community or group concerned

Bishohora Gan

1.3 Short, maximally informative title (including indication of domain(s))

Bishahara songs of Lalmonirhat region are performed

1.4 Community(ies)/group(s) that recognize the element as part of their cultural heritage

The followers of traditional religions accept it as their tradition. However, it is also prevalent in Muslim society.

1.5 Physical location(s) of the element/how often it is practiced

Bishahara songs are performed in the Lalmonirhat region of the northern district of Bangladesh. This song is practiced in five upazilas of Lalmonirhat district.

1.6 Short description (max. 200words)

Performance of Bishahara songs of Lalmonirhat region: Bishahara Gaan is a popular folk drama of Lalmonirhat region. This song is performed with an original singer, a doari, 4/5 girls and a musical instrument. No high stage is required for this song. Spreading sacks or rugs on the ground, the artists sit in a circle and play each role in stages. Straw is spread for the spectators to sit on. Male and female spectators sit separately. This service is especially associated with the rituals of medicine and the followers of traditional religions.

1.7 Domain of the element (select one or more/suggest alternative domain)

Performing arts

2. Characteristics of the element

2.1 Practitioners(s)/performer(s): roles, age, gender, social status, and/or professional category etc)

Men of almost all ages are associated with the practice of this song. However, middle and old women among women take part in it. People of the third sex also take part as girls.

2.2 Other tradition bearers (individuals/groups and their roles)

The people of the house where the Bishahara song festival is held, lighting, decoration and dressing room etc. are held, the people of the house play a role and help in broadcasting.

2.3 Language(s), register(s), speech level(s) involved

Regional language of Rangpur (Rajbangshi language)

2.4 Associated tangible elements ( if any)

Clothing: Kushilob of Bishahara songs usually wears everyday clothes. The original singer uses a white dhoti, white or colored Punjabi, sash and waistband. Dohar dhoti and white vest are worn. The girls wear saris and blouses. Chukriya takes on wigs, makeup.   Venue: Bishahara songs are served by making a meeting in the temple / big field / backyard. Instruments / Musical Instruments: Harmonium, Khol or Mridang, Congo, Kartal, Fulet, Cornet, Flute etc. are used. Rituals / Foods: Vegetarian food such as khichuri, payes, yoghurt chira, ghanta (curry cooked with different vegetables), luchi, sweets, different types of fruits, lollipops, flowers, basil trees etc. At the end of the song, Bhog Prasad (Batasa) is given to the fans / spectators.

2.5 Associated intangible elements (if any)

  Songs are served through dance, song and acting which are part of the untouchable element.

2.6 How are women and people of other genders associated with this ICH element

There is no obligation.

2.7 Division of labour during the practice of aforementioned ICH element

There is a division of labor on the importance of character. The main singers, doharis and chukris thus divide the labor in stages.

2.8 Customary practices governing access to the element or to aspects of it

Not applicable

2.9 Modes of transmission

Guru tradition, lineage tradition

2.10 Organizations concerned (non-governmental organizations and others)

Not applicable

3. State of the element (viability)

3.1 Threats to the enactment (if any)

No threats

3.2 Threats to the transmission (if any)

There are no restrictions on broadcasting.

3.3 Threat to associated tangible elements and resources (if any)

No

3.4 Viability of associated intangible elements (if any)

Not applicable

3.5 Safeguarding measures in place (if any)

Not applicable Restrictions and permissions of data

4. Data gathering/documentation, Consent and preparation of inventory entries

4.1 Consent of community/group/individuals concerned for data collection with a view to inventorying

There was community consent

4.2 Restrictions, if any, on use of data collected

Not applicable

5. Resource Person

5.1 Persons/groups, including community representatives

. Simon Zakaria Researcher, playwright and author 2. Gautam Chandra Barman Folklore researcher

5.2 Date(s) and place(s) of data gathering

Date : 2020-01-19
Place(s) : Date: 19/01/2020 Location: Gotamari, Hatibandha, Lalmonirhat

6. Safeguarding techniques

6.1 Existing safeguarding techniques in the community for the safeguarding of the ICH element

Not applicable

6.2 Suggestions for safeguarding of the ICH element from the community

Not applicable

7. References to literature, discography, audiovisual materials or archives

7.1 References to/in literature

Not applicable

7.2 Audiovisual materials or archives

Not applicable

7.3 Discography or archives

Not applicable

8. Modalities for updating the information contained in the inventory entry

8.1 Persons/groups, including community representatives, who compiled the inventory entry

Gautam Chandra Barman

8.2 Consent of community/group/individuals concerned for data collection with a view to inventorying

Not applicable

8.3 Date of community consent to include the entry on an inventory

2020-01-19

8.4 Present condition of the cultural element

Still maintaining

9. Community suggestions

(a)Brief description of suggestions for safeguarding of the element by community members/experts/holders, if any

Not applicable

(b)Brief description of restrictions on use of data collected, if any

Not applicable