Sayam-Er Aalo and Bitish Babu - Smarannik Festival

1st Play: SAYAM-ER AALO

Written by Smarannik Theatre Group

Direction: Sayandeb Bhattacharya

Duration: 50 mins

Smarannik's original play, “Sayam-er Aalo," is a tale of human connection and redemption, where the profound depths of human relations are explored.

In a quiet corner of time, we find Praloy Dasgupta, a revered social worker, grappling with the trials of cancer-related complications. Worried for his beloved ones, Praloy feels that he is at a stage of life where all the recent memories are blurred, but clarity reigns supreme for the distant past.

Dr. Aniruddha Sanyal, a visiting oncologist from the USA, bears witness to Praloy's struggle. In his pursuit of understanding, he seeks to meet Mrs Reena Dasgupta, Praloy's devoted wife. Strangely, the doctor insists on meeting her at her residence, a choice laden with intrigue and purpose.

Yet, in the labyrinth of time, a different tale unfolds - a reminiscence from half a century past when Torsha, a teenage girl, went to celebrate her birthday at her cousin Rony's place. Little did she know that this encounter would etch itself into her existence, forever imprinted on her soul. A chance meeting with Tutai, a teenage boy and Rony's friend, would forever alter the course of their lives.

As the final act approaches, a poignant question resonates through the hearts of the audience: "Does life deserve a second chance?" "Sayam-er Aalo" beckons you to witness the power of love, forgiveness, and the unbreakable bonds that transcend time itself?

2nd Play: BITISH BABU

Starring: Debsankar Halder & Ashim Raychowdhury

Written & Directed by Dibyendu Paul

Group: Garia Antarik (Kolkata)

Duration: 50 mins

The play is performed by the legendary theatre actor, Debsankar Halder, as the protagonist.

Everyone has stories that come to light at the right time and place. The red houses of Bow Barracks near Bowbazar police station in Kolkata bear witness to stories of the legacy of the British Raj. David Gale is a local Anglo-Indian resident of Bow Barracks. Perched at a local bar, David sips mug after mug of beer and shares stories with bartender Nikhil. On one side is the pride of the Anglo-Indian community's British roots—on the other, their struggles, deprivation, isolation, and shattered dreams. David talks about his father's accomplishments that earned him special recognition throughout Anglo-Indian society. He details the extraordinary love between his parents, a rare example of a "happily-ever-after" marriage. David shares extreme details about this marginalised Anglo-Indian community in a prosperous India that talks about unity in diversity. Seemingly drunk, he rattles things whether you want to hear them or not.