Assam's mobile theatres facing uncertain future due to COVID-19 pandemic

A CORRESPONDENT

PATHSALA: The mobile theatres in Assam have been severely hit in the prevailing situation following the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. Uncertainty looms large over the normal functioning of various sectors including this most-efficient mass media format. The long duration of lockdown has adversely affected normal life with the daily wage earners being the worst sufferers.

Losing a day's performance costs a financial loss of around Rs 1 lakh for a theatre group. Each of the more than 60 such theatre groups across the State give employment to 100 to 150 people. These include artistes, builders of pandals (temporary structure for performance) and electricians as well as other technicians who look after the light and sound arrangements.

In the first week of August every year, these theatre groups set out on a nine-month journey, reaching out to people in every nook and corner of the state.

The mobile theatre groups of Assam are known as 'Bhraymaman Natyadals' in Assamese). The troupes are made up of a collective of actors, singers, dancers, directors, action artists, makeup artists, workers, and the producer. These mobile theatre groups perform at villages, towns and cities within the State. The theatre groups offer a popular medium of entertainment; and are an integral part of the Assamese culture.

The first mobile theatre group of Assam — the 'Nataraj Theatre' — was established at Pathsala by veteran theatre organizer Achyut Lahkar way back in 1963. He is known as the 'Father of Bhraymaman or Mobile Theatre in Assam'. The popular 'Nataraj Theatre' performed across Assam and in other States for nearly 40 years. The pioneering dramatist passed away at the age of 85 on June 12, 2016 following a protracted illness.

Kiran Lahkar, wife of late Achyut Lahkar, told The Sentinel, "The workers of mobile theatre are facing a tough time. The industry as a whole is staring at massive losses due to coronavirus outbreak and the stretched lockdown periods. However, this potent means of mass media and entertainment must saved at this critical juncture. The government should look into the matter."

Veteran theatre personality octogenarian Krishna Roy — who has around 60 years of experience in this field besides running independently the popular 'Abahan Theatre' for about eight years — expressed unhappiness over the situation. He expressed hope that the problem will be solved; and in this context, he said that the role of the State government must be of prime importance. In the present situation, he also urged everybody to strictly follow the COVID -19 protocols announced by the government to cope up with the situation.

Noted theatre personality and producer of 'Kohinoor Theatre', Tapan Lahkar has also expressed concern over the situation.

Senior advocate of Bajali, Giridhar Choudhury said, "More than one lakh people are engaged in this industry across the State. Many of them are facing a tough time due to this COVID-19 lockdown. The Assam Government should come forward to help this industry." he added.

Also watch: Evening Bulletin | 23rd June, 2020