Lucknow is set to become the epicenter of Bengali theatrical excellence this winter as it prepares to host a prestigious national drama festival. The city's cultural calendar will be enriched by the 59th Prakash Chandra Ghosh Memorial All India Full-Length Bengali Drama Competition, a landmark event celebrating the rich tradition of Bengali stagecraft.
A Historic Cultural Gathering in the Heart of Uttar Pradesh
Scheduled to run from December 20 to January 8, the festival will unfold at the historic Bengali Club & Youngmen's Association in Lucknow. Club President Arun Kumar Banerjee has emphasized the unique stature of this event, noting it is the only full-length Bengali drama competition of its kind in the entire country. This draws leading theatre groups from major cultural hubs including Delhi, Ahmedabad, and West Bengal, making it a true national confluence of talent.
The festival will be formally inaugurated on Saturday by Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, the Additional Chief Secretary. The opening ceremony is set for 7:30 PM, marking the beginning of nearly three weeks of dramatic performances.
Inaugural Night: A Blend of Tradition and Narrative
The inaugural evening promises a special treat for audiences, showcasing Bengal's deep-rooted folk traditions alongside contemporary plays. A highlight will be the traditional Putul Nach (puppet dance) titled "Thakumar Jhuli". This performance will be presented by the renowned Baruipur Gangaradi Puppet Theatre Group from Kolkata, under the artistic direction of Pradip Sardar.
Adding to the diversity of the opening night, a Shruti Natak (audio play) will be presented by Lucknow's own talented artists, Indrajeet Mitra and Rupa Mukherjee. This blend of visual puppet theatre and auditory storytelling sets a captivating tone for the competition to follow.
An Open Invitation to Theatre Lovers
President Arun Kumar Banerjee has extended a warm appeal to all theatre enthusiasts in Lucknow and beyond to attend the festival in large numbers. He underscores the importance of public support in sustaining such a historic cultural event. In a significant move to ensure wide accessibility, entry to all events and performances during the festival will be completely free.
This festival not only provides a competitive platform for theatre groups but also serves as a vital cultural bridge, bringing the essence of Bengali drama to a diverse audience in North India. It stands as a testament to Lucknow's enduring role as a melting pot of India's varied artistic traditions.
