Ancient Buddhist verses, modern Bengali poetry and Rabindranath Tagore’s timeless play “Dakghar” came together in a vibrant celebration of literature and performance at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Friday (June 5) evening.
Jointly organised by Bagerhat Theatre and recitation group Shobdokolpodroom, the programme was held at the Studio Theatre Hall, offering audiences a journey through Bengali language, poetry and dramatic expression.
The evening opened with ensemble recitations of “Charyapada” and “Banglar Mukh”, creating a bridge between the earliest known examples of Bengali literary expression and contemporary poetic voices. Through carefully choreographed vocal performances, the productions highlighted the evolution of Bengali language and literature across centuries.
A solo recitation titled “Pirit-er Purnimar Chand” brought regional poetry to the forefront, drawing audiences into the emotional landscapes of rural life, memory and love.
The production “Banglar Mukh” featured works by literary giants Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam and Jibanananda Das, among others. Through a blend of voice, rhythm and interpretation, the performance transformed poetry into a vivid theatrical experience, holding the audience in attentive silence.
A major highlight of the evening was Bagerhat Theatre’s shruti natok adaptation of selected scenes from Tagore’s “Dakghar”. The performance explored the inner world of Amal, the ailing child at the heart of the play, whose longing for freedom and connection unfolds through imagination, hope and anticipation.
The production resonated strongly with audiences, with its emotional depth and restrained storytelling creating moments of profound stillness throughout the hall. Sustained applause at the end reflected the audience’s appreciation of the performance.
Performers portraying Amal and the play’s other characters received particular praise for their expressive delivery. The production was further strengthened by its use of music, atmosphere and stage management, resulting in a cohesive theatrical experience.
According to the organisers, the programme aimed to introduce younger audiences to Bengali literature and theatre through engaging and accessible performances. Audience response suggested that the effort succeeded in bringing classical texts and contemporary presentation together in a meaningful way.
Recitations during the programme were performed by Layla Akter, Nilufa Yasmin Nila, Prottasha Binte Shahin, Poly Hawlader, Luna Afroza, Sheikh Halima Farhana Mitu, Hira Akter, Rumana Haque Rita, Sharbori Dey Ratri, Tushar Kanti Roy, Joly Khatun, Mimha Binte Munir, Ronita Sarkar and Ismail Hossain Nayan.
The “Dakghar” presentation featured Nuwairah Rashid Riddhi, Mehrima Naomi, Tabedar-e-Rasul Channu, Nazmul Ahsan, Aktaruzzaman Jhulan, H M Al Mamun, Apu Ahmed and Takdir Abid Poni.
All performances in the programme were directed by Nazmul Ahsan.
