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Endangered Bengali Folk Arts Revived on Stage
11 Jul
Summary
- Play revives endangered Bengali folk traditions like Gomira and Jatra.
- It explores the survival of traditional art forms in contemporary times.
- The production is praised for its seamless blend and evocative atmosphere.
Angina Jure Bhor, a 150-minute drama directed by Dr. Gaurav Das, is an ambitious production that thoughtfully integrates Bengal's endangered folk performance traditions with contemporary theatre. The play revisits the traditional 'angina' (courtyard) as a vital cultural space where stories and community life once thrived.
Driven by years of research, the narrative follows PhD scholar Nafeez as he seeks the forgotten history of the abandoned RadhaRani Mancha. He encounters theatre owner Joydeb Debsharma, whose recollections depict a journey from a rural Gomira dancer to a city-based practitioner entangled in theatre politics.
The production excels in its seamless incorporation of diverse folk forms, including Gomira, Khon Palagaan, Halua Haluani, and Jatra. Elaborate choreography and music generate a visually striking, dreamlike atmosphere, illustrating the reinterpretation of traditional art without losing its essence.
Performances by Anubhab Sengupta as Nafeez, Arup Roy, and Tapati Bhattacherji as Joydeb and Damayanti are notable. Bhaskar Banik's portrayal of the young Joydeb is particularly impressive. The play ultimately succeeds as an engaging drama and a moving meditation on Bengal's rich folk heritage.
