Tagore as protagonist

Shamim Shagor plays young Rabindranath.

Theatre troupe Palakar staged their popular production “Banglar Mati Banglar Jol” at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) on Friday evening. The play was staged as part of the ongoing theatre festival -- “Jogote Anondo Jogge Amar Nimontron” -- marking Ataur Rahman's birthday.
The play has been written by noted author-playwright Syed Shamsul Haque, based on Tagore's “Chinnopotro” while Ataur Rahman --who has aptly directed several Tagore adaptations-- has directed it.
The timeline of the play spans the years 1889 to 1895. During these years Tagore wrote “Chinnopotro”, portraying the scenic beauty of pastoral Bangladesh which he observed closely during his stay in Shiladah, Shahjadpur and Patishar to look after his family estates.
Otherwise stated, the play is an account of the bard cum- landlord's fascination for this land and how this fascination comes through in his writings. It also zooms in on Tagore's literary works, which were tremendously influenced by his experience of coming across rural Bangladesh. According to the play, his stay in Bengal inspired his literary works “Shamapti”, “Chitrangada”, “Chhuti” and “Postmaster”.
The play also portrays how Tagore came in touch with  Bauls, especially with Gagan Harkara. He was tremendously influenced by Baul songs and philosophy. It is believed that our national anthem -- “Amar Sonar Bangla”-- was inspired by Gagan Harkara's “Ami Kothay Pabo Tarey”.
In the play, Shamim Sagor appears on stage as Rabindranath. He endeavours to articulate the natural beauty of Bengal, the liberality of its people and the thought-provoking songs of Fakir Lalon which influenced the poet. The dialogues, recitations, songs and soliloquy all describe Tagore's love for East Bengal.
A naturalistic stage design coupled with an ingenious light setup created an idyllic ambience. In addition, Lalon's song and recitation of Tagore's poem brought forth the mystic nature of life. A boat has also been symbolically used in the play as Tagore used to love nature even as his boat carried him across the Padma.
In the play, Shahana Bappi appeared as Indira Devi. The cast also included Aminur Rahman Mukul, Shahrier Khan and many others.
Nagorik Natya Sampradaya will stage “Opekkhoman” at the Studio Theatre Hall at 7 pm today, as part of the festival.