Natyalok celebrates 9th anniversary

Babul Sarker and his troupe from Dhaka perform at the programme while actor Zahid Hassan addresses the audience (inset).Photo: STAR

Natyalok, an organisation of theatre artistes in Sirajganj town celebrated its 9th anniversary amidst much festively and enthusiasm on November 15. On the occasion, the organisation arranged several programmes including processions, discussion and cultural events.
As part of the programmes, a colourful procession paraded the main streets in the town. Alamgir Rahman, Superintendent of Police, Sirajganj, inaugurated the procession at Natyalok's office premises.
Another procession was held at the Public Library premises, where hundreds of cultural personalities gathered.
A discussion and a cultural programme were held at Sirajganj Degree College auditorium. Ashraf Ali, Deputy Commissioner, Sirajganj, was the chief guest at the event.
Debobrato Shaha, convenor of Natyalok, presided over the programme, while Jhuna Chowdhury, secretary general of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation; Akhtaruzzaman, assistant secretary general of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation and renowned TV actor Zahid Hassan were also present at the programme as special guests.
Speakers at the programme conveyed that theatre is like a mirror to the society. However they were concerned that performing art forms like theatre and 'jatra' are under constant threat from the aggression of the “satellite culture.”
Speakers urged all to keep the traditions of theatre alive by encouraging the art form.
They also addressed the issue of aggression on culture and freedom of expression from fundamentalist groups. Referring to the demolition of the sculpture “Achin Pakhi,” they urged all to unite and confront the forces that present a threat to our traditions and cultural practices.
At the cultural programme, local artistes staged a play and baul singer Babul Sarker and his troupe from Dhaka performed songs.
Around 2000 people attended the programme.
Among others, Abdul Hashem Anu, adviser, Natyalok; social activist Jahangir Alam Raton; Asaduddin Pablu, president of Sammilito Sangskritik Jote, Sirajganj unit, spoke on the occasion.