The 31st National Ronghar Drama Festival, a landmark event in Assam’s cultural calendar, is set to dazzle audiences with its rich blend of theatrical artistry from December 25 to 28, 2024. Hosted at the Barpeta District Library Auditorium, this four-day festival celebrates both regional and national productions, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of Assamese and Indian theater. Organized by Ronghar, a prominent cultural institution in Assam, this year’s festival holds added significance as it coincides with the centenary celebrations of Milan Mandir, Barpeta—a historic institution that has played a vital role in nurturing the region’s dramatic arts. The event will pay homage to this legacy by presenting six captivating productions that blend tradition with modernity, offering fresh perspectives on human experiences and societal themes.
The festival’s opening play, Menaka, dramatized from Homen Borgohain’s novel Matsyagandha, is directed by acclaimed theater artist Pakija Begum. Produced by Guwahati’s Ba, the 95-minute play delves into complex emotional and societal conflicts, setting a high bar for the event. Day two brings diverse offerings, including Raghunath by Nagaon’s Abhimukh, and Maurot Nojowa Keitar Kahini by Dergaon Natyacharcha Kendra, each delivering thought-provoking narratives on interpersonal and cultural challenges. The festival’s third day widens its scope, presenting Comfort Women, a powerful commentary on wartime exploitation by Guwahati’s Abhijnanam, followed by Atmavat, a philosophical exploration of identity by Kolkata-based Kalpana.
Concluding the festival are two adaptations: Jina Isi Ka Naam Hai, a Hindi rendition of Arbuzov’s Old World, and Edward Albee’s The Zoo Story, performed by Panchkochi, New Delhi. Both plays navigate universal themes of love, nostalgia, and human connection. The 31st National Ronghar Drama Festival is a tribute to Assam’s cultural heritage and a testament to the transformative power of theater. With its compelling lineup, the event promises to inspire, entertain, and leave a lasting impact on audiences.
