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Jatra Utsab '06 begins in Dhaka

19 March 2006, 18:00 PM
LIFESTYLE
By Khalid-Bin-Habib
19 March 2006, 18:00 PM
Actors performing in the jatra Bedkonya
Jatra(an indigenous form of drama) used to hold a popular position in our culture. It was an unparalleled medium of entertainment for the rural people. With the passage of time, this indigenous art form is losing its audience. In this otherwise dismal scenario, there is a light at the end of the tunnel: a week-longjatrafestival organised by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) at its premises. State Minister for Cultural Affairs, Selima Rahman inaugurated the festival on March 17. Noted theatre personality Golam Ambia Nuri was present as a special guest. The festival features live performances, discussions and special events.

The inaugural session was followed by the presentation of Bedkonya, written by Sekandar Ali and presented by Azad Opera of Narayanganj. On March 18, Keya Jatra Unit of Laxmipur presented Laili Majnu, written by Charu Chandra Roy. On March 19, Mahua, written by Hirendra Krishna Das was staged by Agragami Lokonatyadal of Magura. Shagor Bhasha will be staged by Bishwashwari Opera of Barguna tonight. New Sabuj Opera of Manikganj will stage Gunai Bibi, written by Bashir Ahmed, on March 21. On March 22, Rupanjali Opera of Barisal will present Rahim Badsha O Rupban Konya, written by Mohammad Shamsul Haque.

The festival will wrap up on March 23. Desh Opera will stage Kamolar Banobash, written by Karim Khan.

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