Under the Sal Tree: Theatre festival thrives amid sal groves, blending culture and nature

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 17, 2024

The serene Sal tree plantation of Rampur, Goalpara district, came alive as Badungduppa Kalakendra inaugurated the 15th edition of its globally acclaimed ‘Under the Sal Tree’ theatre festival on Sunday morning. Marking the silver jubilee of the organization, the festival celebrates 25 years of pioneering theatre practices that seamlessly blend art with nature.

The three-day festival began on a high note with an opening ceremony graced by renowned painter Rabiram Brahma, who inaugurated the event. Following the inaugural session, the stage was set for the first performance of the festival, “Dadan Raja” (Rabha), directed by Dhananjay Rabha and scripted by Managing Director Madan Rabha. The poignant play, rich in cultural ethos, captivated the audience with its evocative storytelling and connection to the Rabha community’s roots. The play beautifully depicted the untimely demise of the legendary Rabha king of prehistoric times due to anger and external instigation.

In the afternoon, “Monglee” (Bodo) took center stage, directed by Pabitra Rabha and performed by Dapon the Mirror. The play reflected the joys and sorrows of rural and urban life while featuring vibrant Bodo dance sequences, which further enriched its emotional narrative. The impeccable performances, music, and choreography were widely appreciated by the audience.

Adding to the opening day’s significance, three books were released at the Badungduppa campus at 12 noon. The books included “Resonance: Echoing the Spirit of Badungduppa” – a trilogical memorial book, “Sukracharjya Rabha on the Back Stage” – authored by Lakhikanta Rabha, and “Under the Sal Tree” (2nd Edition) – edited by West Bengal-based litterateur Avik Bhattacharya.

The books were collectively released by esteemed guests, including film director Santwana Bordoloi, poet and scientist Bipuljyoti Saikia, senior journalist Mrinal Talukdar, playwright Nayan Prasad, and Bharat Bhushan Dev Choudhury, Chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC).

Thousands of theatre enthusiasts gathered in the bamboo galleries of the open-air theatre on the opening day, adding to the vibrant atmosphere and underscoring the festival’s wide-reaching appeal. Audiences braved the winter chill, fully immersed in the captivating theatrical performances and the unique ambience of the festival.

On December 16, the festival featured two plays: “Kindhan Charithiram” (Tamil), which explored themes of societal change, and “Kisan Raj” (Hindi), addressing the struggles and resilience of farmers. Both plays received heartfelt applause for their compelling storytelling and impactful performances. The final day, December 17, promises a Rabha folk performance celebrating indigenous culture, followed by an open interactive session where theatre enthusiasts, artists, and scholars will reflect on the 25-year journey of Badungduppa Kalakendra.