Guwahati; December 12, 2024: Badungduppa Kalakendra, located in Rampur, Goalpara district of Assam, is marking its 25th anniversary with the 15th edition of the ‘Under the Sal Tree’ theatre festival. Celebrated for its eco-friendly principles and international recognition, the festival is scheduled from December 15 to December 17, 2024. Established in 1998 by the late Sukracharjya Rabha, Badungduppa Kalakendra has led the way in harmonizing art with nature.
Set in a tranquil Sal tree plantation, the festival is distinguished by its zero-carbon-footprint ethos, featuring bamboo and straw seating and performances without microphones, all underscoring its commitment to sustainability. This year, the festival’s theme centers on retrospection and shared memories, celebrating Badungduppa’s 25 years of theatrical innovation and experimentation. Managing Director Madan Rabha expressed gratitude for the journey, noting, “This 25-year journey has been one of challenges and triumphs. It is the love and support of our patrons that has kept us moving forward. We invite you to join us in commemorating this incredible voyage.” The festival will showcase plays in four languages, welcoming theatre groups from across India.
A special session will recount cherished memories of Badungduppa’s journey, with notable supporters present. The event kicks off on December 15 with an inauguration by renowned painter Rabiram Brahma, followed by the play Dadan Raja (Rabha), directed by Dhananjay Rabha and written by Madan Rabha. In the afternoon, Monglee (Bodo), directed by Pabitra Rabha and performed by Dapon the Mirror, will be featured. On December 16, the Tamil play Kindhan Charithiram, directed by Rajiv Krishnan of Perch Theatre, Chennai, will be staged, followed by Kisan Raj (Hindi), directed by Dr. Gaurav Das of Anuchintan Art Centre, Kolkata. The final day, December 17, will begin with a Rabha folk performance and conclude with an open session reflecting on the 25-year journey of Badungduppa Kalakendra. Each evening’s performances will be followed by discussions around a bonfire, fostering artistic exchange among audiences, artists, and scholars.
The festival also honors the pioneering concept of “Hygiene Theatre,” introduced by the late Sukracharjya Rabha, which blends art with sustainability. Over the years, the festival has hosted theatre groups from India and countries like South Korea, Brazil, Poland, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, achieving global acclaim. As part of its silver jubilee celebrations, Badungduppa Prakashan is set to release several publications documenting its extraordinary journey. Supported by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, IOCL, and Bongaigaon Refinery, the festival stands as a testament to the enduring power of art in preserving cultural heritage. President Cheena Rabha, Secretary Lakhikanta Rabha, and Managing Director Madan Rabha encourage theatre enthusiasts to take part in this milestone event and honor the legacy of the late Sukracharjya Rabha, who passed away in 2018.
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