Badungduppa Kalakendra, the celebrated theatre group from Rampur in Assam’s Goalpara district, is marking its silver jubilee year with the 15th edition of its iconic theatre festival, ‘Under the Sal Tree’.
Running from December 15 to 17, the festival promises to be a special celebration of 25 years of artistic innovation and environmental consciousness.
Founded in 1998 by the late Sukracharjya Rabha, Badungduppa Kalakendra has become a pioneer in blending art with nature, earning international acclaim for its eco-friendly ethos.
The festival is set against the backdrop of a lush Sal tree plantation, with the group’s signature zero-carbon-footprint approach on full display.
From bamboo and straw seating to performances conducted without microphones, every detail reflects the group’s commitment to sustainability.
This year’s festival theme, ‘Retrospection and Shared Memories’, is a reflection on the group’s quarter-century journey, filled with both challenges and triumphs.
Managing Director Madan Rabha expressed his gratitude, saying, “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 three-day festival will feature performances in four languages, with theatre groups from across India showcasing their talent.
A special session will also be held to revisit Badungduppa’s remarkable journey, with prominent figures who have supported the group over the years attending the event.
The festival will open on December 15 with an inauguration by renowned painter Rabiram Brahma.
The first play, Dadan Raja (Rabha), directed by Dhananjay Rabha and written by Madan Rabha, will follow.
Later in the afternoon, Monglee (Bodo), directed by Pabitra Rabha and performed by Dapon the Mirror, will take the stage.
On December 16, audiences can enjoy the Tamil play Kindhan Charithiram, directed by Rajiv Krishnan of Perch Theatre, Chennai, followed by Kisan Raj (Hindi), directed by Dr. Gaurav Das of Anuchintan Art Centre, Kolkata.
The final day, December 17, will begin with a traditional Rabha folk performance and conclude with an open session reflecting on Badungduppa’s 25-year journey.
Each evening’s performances will be followed by discussions around a bonfire, encouraging artistic exchange among audiences, artists, and scholars.
The festival also pays tribute to the pioneering concept of “Hygiene Theatre,” introduced by Sukracharjya Rabha, which integrates art with sustainability.
Over the years, the festival has hosted theatre groups from India and abroad, including participants from South Korea, Brazil, Poland, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, earning global recognition for its unique approach.
As part of the silver jubilee celebrations, Badungduppa Prakashan will release several publications documenting the group’s remarkable journey.
The festival is supported by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, IOCL, and Bongaigaon Refinery.
President Cheena Rabha, Secretary Lakhikanta Rabha, and Managing Director Madan Rabha have urged theatre enthusiasts to participate in this milestone event and honour the legacy of Sukracharjya Rabha, who passed away in 2018.
This festival is a testament to the enduring power of theatre and its ability to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
