Friendship Day 2023: Soumita Saha Revives Tagore’s Spirit with ‘Aay Tobe Shohochori’

Rajkumari Sharma Tankha

This Friendship Day (August 6), Soumita Saha brings a soulful musical tribute to friendship with her latest release, Aay Tobe Shohochori. Saha is Kolkata’s celebrated Rabindra Sangeet artist.

Written by Tagore in 1879 and composed in Raaga Chhayanot, the song captures the essence of companionship and harmony. The track releases under the banner of Best Of City of Joy. The musical arrangement by Tom Bailey and recording and mixing by Rana Monal at Studio RJ.

Celebrating Friendship Through Tagore’s Timeless Vision

“Soumita shares that Tagore’s works have always celebrated the purity and depth of friendship,” she says.

Tagore’s poetry often reflects unconventional bonds—even between nature and its elements. His writings highlight friendship as a universal connection that transcends boundaries.

Historically, Tagore’s idea of friendship also had a strong social message. During the Partition of Bengal, he initiated the celebration of Rakhi as a symbol of unity between communities.

Why ‘Aay Tobe Shohochori’?

In today’s media-driven world, where narratives often portray women as rivals, Soumita consciously chose Aay Tobe Shohochori to highlight female friendship and solidarity.

She points out that while male friendships are often idealised in films and television, the portrayal of women’s relationships is frequently negative. This song, however, offers a refreshing perspective—celebrating togetherness, joy, and emotional connection.

The lyrics, which invite companions to come together, hold hands, and celebrate life through music, perfectly embody the spirit of Friendship Day.

Soumita Saha: Bridging Tradition and Modernity

Known for her versatility, Soumita Saha has carved a niche in the world of Rabindra Sangeet by seamlessly blending traditional depth with contemporary arrangements.

Her notable renditions, including Nisarga Madhuri, Gram Chhara Oi Ranga Matir Poth, and Tomar Khola Hawa, have been widely appreciated by audiences.

Her album Nisarga Madhuri received significant acclaim, further establishing her as a prominent voice in contemporary Rabindra Sangeet.

Tagore’s Influence on the Idea of Friendship

For Soumita, Tagore’s work has deeply shaped her understanding of friendship.

She believes that friendship is one of the strongest human bonds—one that extends beyond people to nature itself. Tagore’s compositions, she says, teach unconditional love, positivity, and emotional connection.

In a world increasingly driven by individualism, such values remain more relevant than ever.

With Aay Tobe Shohochori, Soumita Saha not pays tribute to Rabindranath Tagore’s timeless philosophy. She is also reintroducing the beauty of meaningful friendships in a modern context. Her musical offering serves as a reminder that true friendship is rooted in empathy, unity, and shared joy.