Dhaka Padatik, one of the most prominent theatre troupes in the country, celebrated its 40th founding anniversary through a two-day theatre festival at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) in the capital.

The festival began on Thursday by lighting candle in the lobby of the Experimental Theatre Hall. The lobby was also decorated with the photographs of various scenes from the productions of Dhaka Padatik.  

Noted theatre personality Asaduzzaman Noor inaugurated the festival as chief guest, while State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid, Sammilita Sangskritik Jote President Golam Kuddus, Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation Secretary General Akhtaruzzaman, actor Nader Chowdhury, director Masum Aziz, managing director of United Commercial Bank Limited Mohammed Shawkat Jamil were present as guests.

On the inaugural day, Dhaka Padatik conferred two awards-- Abul Kashem Dulal Padak and Gazi Zakir Hossain Padak on M Hamid and Asma Akter Liza respectively for their noteworthy contribution to theatre arena.

After receiving the award M Hamid said in his speech, “There was a time when we had to take permission from the police before staging any play. From that point, after the country’s independence, we had an endless effort to make experimental drama. As a result, the theatre now gets hassle free ground. The award which I have received today pleased me.”

Asma Akter Liza said, “I came into this theatre arena when I was only 14 years old and it continues till now. Gradually, this theatre arena has become my larger family. So, the joy being honoured by family is different.”

After the inaugural ceremony, the host troupe staged its Liberation War-based play ‘Katha 71 at the same venue. Written by Kumar Pritish Bal, the play has been directed by Debashish Ghosh. The story of the play revolves around a freedom fighter and his son.

On the last day, yesterday, the troupe staged its 38th production ‘Trial of Surya Sen’ based on the anti-British movement at the same venue.

Written and directed by Masum Aziz, the play depicts the trial of revolutionary Masterda Surya Sen, who was influential in the Indian independence movement (against British rule).