Reinventing a Chekhov classic

The writer-director has drawn inspiration from Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard” in depicting social changes in rural Bangladesh.Photo: Mumit M.

Theatre troupe Nagarik Natya Sampraday staged its latest production "Kathal Bagan" at the Experimental Theatre Hall, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on September 30. The play has been written and directed by seasoned theatre personality Aly Zaker.
As a theatre troupe, Nagarik believes in internationalism. Apart from leading Bengali plays, the troupe has been staging works of celebrated playwrights from around the world.
Aly Zaker has mentioned that in "Kanthal Bagan" there is a high influence of Russian playwright Anton Chekhov's "The Cherry Orchard". However, he asserted that the play is "neither a translation nor an adaptation" of the Russian play. Rather it is a depiction of a Bengali aristocratic family during a transition.
Zohra and Tasadduq, siblings, have remained estranged from their ancestral estate over the years. After a long break they make a visit to the estate known as 'Kathal Bagan' (jackfruit orchard).
The orchard is not only a symbol of the family's glory, but is also a source of income to many living in the surrounding areas. Ahmed Ali aka Adu is a third generation caretaker of the estate. An opportunist Adu takes full advantage of his position and accumulates significant amount of wealth -- both in legal and illegal ways -- from the orchard.
Though it apparently seems that the owners are alienated from the orchard, it is later revealed that Tasadduq has often looked after the estate. He takes a mortgage from a bank against the property, which he fails to pay off in due time. As a result, the bank decides to have an auction to sell the property. Adu takes the advantage to own the property.
Zaker has drawn inspiration from Chekhov's drama in depicting social changes in rural Bengal. He finds similarities between the changes in 19th century Russia -- as narrated by Chekhov -- and the transforming contemporary rural Bangladesh. He has highlighted aspects like urbanisation and industrialisation that are impacting the rural lifestyle.
Discrimination between male and female members of a family has also been portrayed in the play. When Tasadduq makes a big decision on their ancestral property, Zohra is left in the dark. When Zohra wants to be a part of decision-making, Tasadduq replies that according to the law of the country, he is the main owner of the estate. So he does not feel that his sister deserves to be a part of the decision-making process.
Aly Zaker played the role of Adu. Sara Zaker performed as Zohra. The cast also included Pantho Shahriar (as Tasadduq), Omer Ayaz (as an idealistic schoolteacher who represents the youth), Jhumu Majumdar, Tahnina Islam, Naznin Naz, AK Azad, Md. Fakhruzzaman Chowdhury and Jhontu Bayen.
Use of folk music is notable in the play. AK Azad has done the music. Pijush Dastidar was the set designer, while Nasirul Haque's lights complemented the set. Sara Zaker was the costume designer.
"Kathal Bagan," the 40th production of Nagarik, premiered on July 4 this year.