Some stars appear in the sky of Bengali literature for a fleeting moment, yet their brilliant light continues to illuminate generations. Sukumar Ray was one such short-lived genius. His brief life gifted Bengali children’s literature an extraordinary world—a realm where logic dances alongside whimsical absurdity, reality weaves effortlessly with flights of imagination, and profound insights into life lie subtly concealed beneath layers of wit and humor.

Sukumar Ray was born on 30 October 1887 into a distinguished Brahmo family in Kolkata. His ancestral roots lay in the historic village of Masua in Kishoreganj. His father, Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury, was a renowned children’s writer, artist, musician, and printing technology pioneer. Sukumar grew up in an intellectually vibrant household steeped in literature, fine arts, music, science, and technological innovation.

After completing his BSc (Honours) in Chemistry and Physics from Kolkata’s Presidency College in 1906, Sukumar travelled to England in 1911 to pursue higher education in printing technology. There, he received advanced training in photography and photo-engraving techniques. Upon returning home, he played a pioneering role in integrating modern technology into the Bengali printing and photography industries.

During his stay in England, his father Upendrakishore had established a state-of-the-art printing press in Kolkata capable of producing high-quality colour half-tone blocks, through which he launched Sandesh, a monthly magazine for children.

Following his return to India in 1913, Sukumar took over the editorship of Sandesh after his father’s untimely demise. This transition marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in Bengali children’s literature.

Pen in hand, Sukumar crafted a wonderland for young minds: a world where HaJaBaRaLa defied conventional logic, Pagla Dashu charmed readers with his mischievous antics, absurd creatures carried out bizarre deeds, and clever wordplay invited readers to laugh while sparking deeper reflection.

One of Sukumar Ray’s greatest contributions to Bengali literature was elevating nonsense rhymes to an art form. His nonsense was far from meaningless. Beneath the playful surface lay meticulous linguistic craftsmanship, razor-sharp wit, satire, keen social observation, and a nuanced understanding of human nature.

Classics such as Abol Tabol, HaJaBaRaLa, Pagla Dashu, and Chalachittachanchari remain timeless treasures of Bengali literature. Abol Tabol, in particular, created a unique aesthetic in the world of Bengali rhymes and fantasy, maintaining an appeal that effortlessly transcends age.

The eccentric characters born of his imagination do not merely entertain children; they hold up a mirror to adults. Through nonsensical words, impossible scenarios, and seemingly upside-down logic, he subtly lampooned societal contradictions, hypocrisy, and the limitations of conventional intellect.

Sukumar Ray was a true polymath: a poet, children’s author, humorist, essayist, playwright, photographer, and printing technologist. This rare synthesis of a scientific mindset and artistic sensibility gave his work a distinct, enduring signature.

His cultural legacy also extended through his family line. His son, Satyajit Ray, became a world-renowned filmmaker who elevated Indian cinema to international acclaim.

Yet destiny granted Sukumar Ray only a short time on Earth. On 10 September 1923, at the age of just 35, his remarkable life was cut short by severe leishmaniasis, commonly known as kala-azar.

Though his life came to an end, his artistic legacy remained unstoppable.

Generations have shifted, times have changed, and modern digital entertainment has found its way alongside books in children’s hands. Yet the rhythmic cadence of Abol Tabol, the surreal fantasy of HaJaBaRaLa, and the spirited antics of Pagla Dashu continue to bring smiles to readers’ faces.

Perhaps this is the true measure of literary immortality: the creator departs, but the creation endures; time passes, but the language of joy never fades.

Sukumar Ray was a master craftsman of that eternal joy. The doorway his pen unlocked for young minds continues to welcome countless children and adults into an extraordinary kingdom of imagination—a place where the impossible becomes possible, absurdity brings delight, and deep truths about life shine through gentle laughter.

On his death anniversary, we pay our deepest respect and affection to this immortal master of Bengali children’s literature.

Sukumar Ray—a century has elapsed since your passing, yet your Abol Tabol continues to knock gently on the door of our childhood.

Rest in profound respect.