Bihar's Ashirwad Rangmandal to Represent State at National Theatre Festival in Kolkata
Patna: In a significant cultural milestone, Ashirwad Rangmandal, a prominent theatre troupe hailing from Begusarai, has been selected to represent Bihar at a prestigious national theatre festival scheduled for March 28 in Kolkata. The group will perform its critically acclaimed play 'Pashmina', a deeply moving narrative that delves into the universal experience of grief stemming from the Kashmir conflict.
'Pashmina': A Symbolic Exploration of Shared Loss
Penned by Delhi-based playwright Mrinal Mathur, 'Pashmina' employs a pashmina shawl as a powerful symbol to illustrate how loss transcends religious and communal divides. The storyline follows an elderly couple who journey to Kashmir to honour their deceased son's final wish, only to discover that the anguish of bereavement knows no boundaries of faith or society.
Amit Roushan, secretary of Ashirwad Rangmandal and a member since 2001, emphasized the play's contemporary relevance. "Whether the pain is felt by a Hindu or a Muslim, if death comes, the suffering is equal on both sides," Roushan stated. He highlighted that the troupe stages over 40 performances annually across India, including in Delhi, Bengal, Rajasthan, and Telangana, showcasing their extensive reach and dedication.
Challenges and Evolution of Theatre in Bihar
Reflecting on the state of theatre in Bihar, Roushan identified Patna and Begusarai as the two primary hubs of theatrical activity. Despite their cultural vibrancy, he lamented the systemic neglect that continues to hinder the prospects of theatre practitioners. "If we look at theatre from the government's perspective, there is nothing substantial," he remarked, noting that serious drama often faces scrutiny from authorities due to its focus on social and governance issues.
Roushan pointed out that while the new education policy proposes integrating drama into the curriculum from Classes 8 and 9, Bihar lacks a functional theatre institute. Although a previous cabinet had approved a film and theatre institute, the project remains unrealized. He advocated for greater support, stating, "The state government has promoted music and physical education teachers in high schools, but theatre teachers should also be given similar opportunities." He underscored theatre's vital role in personality development, speech enhancement, and technical skills like sound recording and light management.
Broader Cultural Context and Future Prospects
Roushan observed that many young artists in Bihar view theatre as a stepping stone to the film industry, yet parents often prioritize conventional career paths. Holding a PhD from Hyderabad Central University, he also runs a vocational training institute in Begusarai, blending academic expertise with practical cultural engagement.
The participation of Ashirwad Rangmandal in the national festival not only highlights Bihar's rich theatrical heritage but also brings attention to the ongoing struggles and aspirations of its artists. As the troupe prepares for its Kolkata performance, their story serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity of regional theatre in India.
