Seagull Theatre Brings Arun Sarma’s Sri Nibaran Bhattacharya to Hindi Stage in Guwahati
Presented in Hindi for the first time, Seagull Theatre's adaptation of Sri Nibaran Bhattacharya introduces Arun Sarma’s celebrated work to a broader national audience.
GUWAHATI- Renowned theatre group Seagull Theatre staged a Hindi adaptation of celebrated Assamese playwright Arun Sarma’s acclaimed play Sri Nibaran Bhattacharya on May 28 and 29 at the Seagull Studio in Guwahati, drawing packed audiences and marking a significant moment in contemporary Assamese theatre.
Founded in 1990, Seagull Theatre has long been associated with innovative theatrical productions and cultural engagement. The latest production, envisioned and directed by noted theatre personality Baharul Islam, introduced Sarma’s celebrated work to a wider audience through its first-ever Hindi presentation.
Arun Sarma is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern Assamese literature and theatre. Known for his distinctive storytelling style and incisive social commentary, Sarma authored numerous plays and novels that explored the complexities of human relationships and societal change. His contributions earned him several prestigious honours, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and the Padma Shri in 2010.
Also Read- Also Read- Mission Senehjori Seeks to Take Assam’s Muga Silk from Farm Gate to Global Markets
Among his notable dramatic works, Sri Nibaran Bhattacharya occupies a special place for its introspective examination of an artist’s quest for recognition and understanding. Through the emotional journey of its central character, the play explores themes of creativity, alienation, perseverance and the enduring need for self-expression.
The production sought to preserve the philosophical depth and emotional resonance of the original work while making it accessible to a broader, pan-Indian audience through Hindi. The translation was undertaken by Asha Kothari Choudhury.
The creative team behind the production included music composer Prashanta Kalita, set designers Rakibul Ahmed and Gouranga Narayan Dev, and lighting and costume designer Bhagirathi Bai. Lighting support was provided by Kanu Choudhury.
Also Read- 21 Dead in Massive Fire at Malviya Nagar Hotel-Restaurant in Delhi
The cast featured Baharul Islam, Raju Roy, Jit Baruah, Zia Bahar, Gouranga Narayan Dev, Rakibul Hussain, Amlan, Prashanta Das, Arbab Omar, Poppy, Manasi, Gunjan and Hawa, whose performances were well received by theatre enthusiasts.
The play was staged at Seagull Studio on Juroni Path, R.G. Baruah Road, Guwahati. Organisers said plans are underway to take the production to other cities across the country, expanding the reach of both the play and Assamese theatrical traditions.
The successful staging reflects a growing effort to bring regional literary and theatrical works to national audiences while preserving their cultural and artistic essence.
