Popular theatre troupe Aranyak Natya Dal observed May Day through an array of recitals on Wednesday like it has done every year since 1982.
This year’s programme focused on the Savar tragedy that took lives of about 400 apparel workers and injured thousands.
The day-long programme featuring music, recitation, theatre and seminar began on the Central Shaheed Minar premises on Wednesday morning. Popular television and theatre actor Chanchal Chowdhury rendered Bhupen Hazarika’s song of humanity, Manush manusher jonnya in his melodious voice. Musical troupe Samageet’s rendition of a few thought provoking songs including Amay taala bandho rekhe upheld the spirit of the hard labourers, who are often oppressed by the high class society.
Eminent poet Nirmulendu Goon touched the hearts of the listeners when he recited one of his poems Made in Bangladesh. Mahidul Islam also received audience acclaims as he recited Salil Chowdhury’s Sapath and Sukanta Bhattacharya’s Bodhon in his booming voice.
The day’s greatest attraction was staging of Aranyak’s latest street theatre production Putul Kothon. Written by Mishu Milon and directed by Abu Hashim Masud, the 47th production of Aranyak depicts hideous sides of religious extremism through the story of a puppeteer who struggles for livelihood by conducting puppet shows; however, some religious extremists intervene stating that puppet show is an act against Islam. Earlier, noted actor and troupe leader Mamunur Rashid and Sayed Abul Maksud, scholar and columnist delivered speech at the programme among others.
The second session of the programme began with a seminar titled Shromiker Odhikar O Savar Tragedy at the seminar room of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. With Mamunur Rashid as the chief speaker, the seminar was attended by cultural activists Shafiuddin Sarkar and Shahidul Mamun. Sincere condolences were expressed for Savar victims. There was consensus for everyone to come forward to demand punishment of the culprits and help the victims of the tragedy.
The seminar was followed by staging of Aranyak’s acclaimed production Rarang at the experimental Theatre Hall of the academy. Written and directed by Mamunur Rashid, Rarang features the chronological struggle since mid 19th century of the ethnic minority group Santal living in the northern part of Bangladesh against oppression caused by feudalism and religious racism. The assassination of real life Santal leader Alfred Soren has also been depicted.
-With New Age input
