In a bid to revive the cultural heart of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) opened its anticipated 'Jatra Festival' 2024 on Friday evening, drawing thousands of enthusiastic spectators to the amphitheater at Suhrawardy Udyan.
This week-long festival aims to spotlight Jatrapala, a vibrant traditional folk theater deeply rooted in the culture of Bengal, now faded in the face of technological modernisation.
With the powerful theme, "If you are afraid, you are finished; if you stand up, you are Bangladesh," the festival opened with Surbhi Opera's poignant performance of Nihata Golap, directed by Kabir Khan.
This stirring production set the tone for a week dedicated to celebrating Jatra's enduring legacy, resonating with audiences who remember it as a primary form of mass entertainment in rural Bangladesh.
The inaugural night was graced by special guests from various cultural spheres, including Israfil Majumdar, a key figure in the country's student-led mass uprising, and renowned Jatra artist Anima Dey. Cultural Affairs Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul also attended with his family, emphasising the importance of preserving this folk tradition.
Faiz Zahir, Director of the BSA’s Theatre and Film Department, welcomed attendees with a speech underscoring the significance of Jatra in the country’s cultural heritage. BSA Director General Dr Syed Jamil Ahmed presided over the programme, alongside Jatra Shilpa Malik Samiti General Secretary MA Mannan.
“Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy believes that art belongs at the center of public life,” Dr Jamil said. “This festival embodies that mission, supporting Jatra artistes and celebrating rural Bangladesh’s traditional entertainment.” Dr Jamil also highlighted the funding challenges in the cultural sector, noting that the national budget allocates only Tk 778 crores to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, a fraction of the total Tk 8 lakh crore. He urged the government to expand its support for cultural initiatives.
The opening performance, Nihata Golap, captivated the audience with its portrayal of social tragedy, reminding spectators of Jatra's storytelling depth and emotional reach.
Over the next six days, a new Jatra will be performed each night, featuring classics like Anarkali by New Shamim Theater Company, Meghe Dhaka Tara by Bangabani Opera, Lalan Fakir by Nar-Narayan Opera, Apan Dulal by Bandhu Opera, Phoolan Debi by Sharmin Opera, and Nawab Sirajuddaula by Jatrabandhu Opera.
As this celebration unfolds each night, it is a reminder of Jatra’s unyielding spirit and the efforts to reclaim its place in modern Bengali culture. The festival, free and open to all, continues until November 7, offering audiences a rare opportunity to reconnect with this historic art form.