3-day Ajit Natya Mahotsav concludes in city

The Abhinaya Jagruti Institute of Theatre (AJIT), a city based theatre troupe, organised a national-level theatre festival for the second time, entitled as Ajit Natya Mahotsav 2015. Three plays of Odia, Bengali and Hindi were enacted at the Rabindra Mandap on the occasion with the art lovers enjoying to their hilt.

The host team presented Odia play Bheti in the inaugural evening. Veteran actor Ajit Das directed the play. The play is set in pre-independence period, when mutts were seats of learning. The play portrays the greatness and large-heartedness of a mahant (priest).

It was followed by Hindi play ‘Tuta Aina’ on the second day, designed and directed by Sanjay lal. It showcased conflicts of generation. The playwright describes the present youth as irresponsible and materialistic in their approach towards life. Directed by Biswajit Biswas, Bengali play ‘Jeevan Mrytyu’ explores a woman child widow who is not acceptable in the society. It was staged on the third day. All the three plays were well appreciated with thunderous applause.

“As we have invited theatre troupes from different States, it will increase brotherhood and boost cultural exchange,” said Ajit Das, adding, “My aim is to popularize theatre and create students in this field.”

Das also expressed his concern over dearth of theatres in the city. There are few playwrights in Odia and there is also a need to conduct workshops to enhance skill and create theatre persons, he opined. Dr Ramesh Chandra Panigrahi was conferred with Ajit Natya Samman on the occasion. The festival was inaugurated by State Culture and Tourism Minister Ashok Chandra Panda and it concluded on March 26.