Tagore's Achalayatan

A colourful dance sequence from the play

The leading English medium schools have long been criticised by some for not sufficiently motivating their students to associate with the mainstream Bengali culture and literature. This harsh criticism would be nipped in the bud, if the judgmental critics take the time out to attend this play. The young performers have already mesmerised the audience that had a chance to relish Achalayatan.

Achalayatan depicts the eternal contention between old, rigid, restraining values and rebellious, free spirited, revolutionary ideas. The play is about an institution steeped in ancient traditions that has not seen any change through out the decades. In this institution called Achalayatan, Panchak and Mahapanchak are two brothers who are radically opposed to each other on the axioms of life. Panchak is a rebel opposing everything traditional, whereas Mahapanchak does not want to give up his traditional values. There is a clash of wills between these characters and trouble seems to be brewing in the institution. Amidst the chaos arrives their guru, throwing open the gates of Achalayatan for the first time. The residents of the institution get a taste of the real world and real people. Although, apparently it might seem that the new revolutionary ideas have completely replaced the age-old traditions, in the end, Mahapanchak's conventional values find a place of honour among the people.

Though some of the performers seem to be novices, the team effort and the professionally handled lights, set, costumes, make-up, music and props deserve applause. Azad Abul Kalam demonstrates his skills again as the director of the play. Fareha Zeba has managed to enthrall the audience by the delightful props, one of which needs to be mentioned: the cleverly designed replica of a degenerating brick wall which goes up to reveal a completely different looking set as the scenes change. Incorporating dancers and live music by the group of singers into the play are other elements that deserve acclaim.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chairperson of the board of management of the school, Yasmeen Murshed pointed out that Scholastica wants its students to be proud of our culture and heritage, besides learning about the global culture and literature. Last year the students performed Alice in Wonderland and Hirok Rajar Deshe the year before.