"I have devoted my entire life to the service, preservation, and promotion of Indian music—particularly folk music—along with contributions to literature and cultural development."
"Dr. Shanker Prasad, aged 80 years, have devoted my entire life to the service, preservation, and promotion of Indian music—particularly folk music—along with contributions to literature and cultural development."
Humble Beginnings & Early Challenges
Born on 4th July 1946 in Dumraon, Bihar, the birthplace of Bharat Ratna Ustad Bismillah Khan, I come from a modest background. Having lost my father at the age of two, I was raised by my widowed mother amidst significant hardships. These early life experiences instilled in me a deep connection with rural society and a lifelong inclination toward folk traditions and music.
Academic Excellence
Academically, I have consistently excelled, completing my B.A. (Honours) and M.A. in Hindi with First Division, followed by a Ph.D. in Hindi Literature in 1976 on the topic “Psychology of Women in Hindi Novels (1950–1975).”
Broadcasting & Academic Journeys
My professional journey began in 1969 as an Announcer at All India Radio, Ranchi. In 1980, I was selected through the Union Public Service Commission as a Programme Executive and was posted at All India Radio, Patna, where I served as the in-charge of the Music Department. During this tenure, I had the privilege of working closely with eminent artists across classical, light, and folk music traditions, and I played an active role in providing them with national platforms.
However, driven by my passion for music and desire to remain closely connected with artists, I resigned from this administrative role in 1982 and joined Patna University as a Professor in the Department of Hindi in 1983.
Dumraon Gharana Lineage & Institutions
I belong to the Dumraon Gharana, a musical lineage with a history spanning over 500 years. I have been awarded the highest ‘A Grade’ by All India Radio both as a folk singer and as a music composer. To promote and support folk artists, I established institutions such as Bihar Lokjeevan and the Kala Academy of India.
Cultural Leadership & Festivals
From 1992 to 2004, I had the honor of serving as the Chairman of the Bihar Sangeet Natak Akademi. During this period, I worked extensively to identify, document, and provide platforms to folk artists across the state. I played a key role in organizing the Champaran Mahotsav (since 1991 for over 25 years), which brought national recognition to Tharu tribal artists. Similarly, through the Kosi Mahotsav, I helped bring visibility to the unique folk traditions of the Kosi region.
My association with Sanskar Bharati since 1987 has also enabled me to contribute significantly to the promotion of patriotic songs, folk theatre, and cultural programs across the country.
International Representation & Diplomacy
At the international level, I represented Indian folk culture in Mauritius (1973 and 1987) and in the Soviet Union (1989), including performances and cultural exchanges in cities such as Tashkent, Samarkand, Moscow, and others. I also played leading roles as a principal narrator and singer in Bharat Mahotsav events held in New Delhi (1986) and Mumbai (1989).
National Recognition & Honors
In recognition of my contributions, I have received several honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Government of Bihar (2016), another Lifetime Achievement Award from Sulabh International (2023), and recognition from Prachin Kala Kendra. The Department of Posts, Government of India, also issued a commemorative postage stamp featuring my image.
Literary & Academic Footprint
In addition to my musical journey, I have made meaningful literary contributions. My published works include “Yadon Ke Dariche,” “Tapti Dhoop Ke Saaye,” “Yadon Ki Shehnai,” and “Yadon Ki Virasat,” which document India’s rich cultural and musical heritage. I have also authored “Hamari Virasat Ke Kalakar- Rag,rang Aur Rachna” a significant work dedicated to documenting and recognizing lesser-known folk artists of Bihar.
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