Goalpara: Badungduppa Kalakendra, based in Rampur, is set to celebrate its silver jubilee with the 15th edition of the ‘Under the Sal Tree’ theatre festival, scheduled from December 15 to 17, 2024. Known for its eco-friendly ethos and global recognition, the festival takes place amidst a serene Sal tree plantation and maintains a zero-carbon-footprint approach, featuring bamboo seating and performances without microphones.
Founded in 1998 by Late Sukracharjya Rabha, the festival highlights the coexistence of art and nature. This year’s theme focuses on retrospection and shared memories, marking 25 years of theatre innovation and experimentation.
The festival will showcase plays in four languages, including:
- Dadan Raja (Rabha), directed by Dhananjay Rabha (Dec 15)
- Monglee (Bodo), directed by Pabitra Rabha (Dec 15)
- Kindhan Charithiram (Tamil), directed by Rajiv Krishnan (Dec 16)
- Kisan Raj (Hindi), directed by Dr. Gaurav Das (Dec 16)
The final day features a Rabha folk performance and an open session reflecting on the 25-year journey of Badungduppa Kalakendra. Discussions around bonfires will follow each evening’s performances, fostering artistic exchange.
