Supriyo Sengupta (Karigori Kobiyal) – Preserver of India’s Spiritual Heritage

SUPRIYO SENGUPTA

Creator of the World’s First International Form of “Mahisasuramardini”

In a remarkable contribution to India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, Mr. Supriyo Sengupta, popularly known as Karigori Kobiyal, has created and presented the world’s first international form of the legendary Bengali radio programme “Mahisasuramardini.” This pioneering work stands as a rare blend of devotion, artistic integrity, and cultural preservation.

Originally broadcast since 1931 on All India Radio, Mahisasuramardini holds an iconic place in India’s devotional tradition. Supriyo Sengupta’s international adaptation respectfully preserves the original Sanskrit stotras and Bengali verses composed by Birendra Krishna Bhadra, while introducing a carefully crafted English rendition that mirrors the original meaning, melody, rhythm, and spiritual essence. Unlike modern reinterpretations, this work remains a pure devotional preservation, not a reinterpretation or dilution.

A Cultural Bridge Between India and the World

This historic presentation acts as a powerful cultural bridge, enabling non-Bengali and international audiences to experience the depth, emotion, and sanctity of this timeless composition. By maintaining the traditional musical structure and devotional rhythm, enhanced with refined digital sound, the project ensures authenticity while embracing modern accessibility.

The first public presentation of this global format took place at the Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Golpark, Kolkata, on 23 September 2025, marking the first-ever recognition of Mahisasuramardini in a global linguistic and artistic format, without compromising its sacred tradition.

National Recognition and Legal Protection

The originality and cultural value of this work have been formally acknowledged by the India Book of Records (2022), recognizing Supriyo Sengupta as the first individual to create all Bengali Mahalaya versions in English while preserving their original structure and spiritual essence.
Additionally, the entire project, including script, audio pattern, and delivery, has been copyright registered under Indian law, ensuring its protection as a unique cultural creation. His contribution was further honored with the “Pride of India” Award by SAIARD (2022).

Vision Rooted in Heritage, Guided by Purpose

At its core, this project reflects a deeper vision:

  • To globalize Bengal’s intangible devotional heritage

  • To preserve sacred audio traditions using modern formats

  • To create accessibility without compromising spiritual purity

  • To build a lasting spiritual legacy through devotion, technology, and creativity

Conceived as a heartfelt tribute to his late mother and as a gift to future generations – especially the Indian diaspora, this work goes beyond artistic achievement. It represents cultural responsibility, devotional discipline, and national pride.

Through this historic initiative, Supriyo Sengupta (Karigori Kobiyal) has ensured that a sacred Indian tradition continues to resonate across borders, languages, and generations—pure, preserved, and profoundly relevant.

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