Biswabrata Goswami
KRISHNAGAR, 8 FEB: From the narrow lanes of Bagula to the bright lights of prime-time television, dancer Arpan Nath’s journey has been one of grit, grace and quiet excellence. On Sunday, that journey came full circle as the West Bengal government formally recognised the young artiste, hailing from Bagula No. 2 Gram Panchayat area under the Ranaghat Uttar–Purba Assembly constituency, for his contribution to the performing arts.
Arpan Nath, who rose to statewide prominence through the popular reality show Dance Bangla Dance, was felicitated with the state government’s special goodwill citation, Unnayaner Panchali, in recognition of his artistic achievements. The letter of appreciation was handed over at his residence in the Bagula market area by former Ranaghat Uttar–Purba MLA Samir Kumar Poddar, representing the state government and the party.
The Unnayaner Panchali initiative seeks to acknowledge meritorious individuals across fields while highlighting the state’s welfare schemes and developmental milestones. By honouring artistes and achievers at the grassroots, the programme aims to encourage talent emerging from rural Bengal.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Poddar described Arpan Nath as “a source of immense pride for the region”, adding that his performances had “won the hearts of people across Bengal”. “The Mamata Banerjee-led government has always stood firmly beside artists and cultural practitioners. It gives me great joy to personally convey this message of appreciation from the state,” he said.
Several local political leaders and prominent residents were present at the felicitation ceremony, which drew a warm response from the neighbourhood. For many in Bagula, the honour symbolised official recognition of rural talent that often thrives against considerable odds.
Visibly moved by the gesture, Arpan Nath expressed his gratitude to the state government and to Mr Poddar for their encouragement and support. Local residents echoed the sentiment, noting that such recognition not only boosts individual morale but also inspires young talents in villages to pursue their creative aspirations with renewed confidence.
