This Mahalaya, Aparajito presents the grand musical Binodini Opera starring Sudipta Chakraborty and directed by Abanti Chakraborty. It tells the life story of Nati Binodini Das, who ruled the Bengali theatres in the 19th century.
With actors like Sujan Neel Mukhopadhyay as Gurmukh Rai, Sudipta Chakraborty as Noti Binodini, Padmanabha Dasgupta as Kumar Bahadur, Tathagata Choudhury as Amritalal Basu, and Abhijit Guha as Girish Chandra, the play questions patriarchy in contemporary times through a narrative of songs and illustrative performance.
The production explores the tragic arc—falling from prosperity into misery—and uses live music as a central element. It includes Girish Chandra’s play-songs along with compositions by Rabindranath Tagore, which makes Binodini Opera not just a drama, but a true opera.
"The Flower of the Native Stage"—this was the title given to Nati Binodini by the media in 19th-century Bengal. The origin of Sadharon Rangaloy (public theatre) can be traced to the impact of English theatrical activity in Calcutta. As the term Sadharon Rangaloy suggests, this new form of theatre emerged in contrast to the elite theatre clubs of the upper classes.
The arrival of the British bourgeoisie in Bengal brought new commercial and administrative systems, along with 19th-century capitalist values. Jealousy over prostitutes among Bengali aristocrats and bhodrolok often led to violence, reflecting a macho instinct of treating the woman as a trophy and resenting her independence.
In a chilling episode, Kumar Bahadur, a young and jealous lover, attempted to K*ll Binodini with his sword. But an alert and fearless Binodini stopped him, reminding him of his respectable bhodrolok background and the scandal that would ruin his family name if he were hanged for murdering a prostitute. She didn’t plead or cry, as might be expected in such a moment. Her insight into the weaknesses of her so-called noble lovers gave her the strength to stand her ground.
Director Abanti Chakraborty has consistently explored female sexuality in bold and meaningful ways. Her approach is a rare blend of madness and artistry. The spirit of opera is delicately interwoven throughout the production, and it's clear she didn't want this show to feel over-designed. Instead, she preserved the lyrical core of tragedy.
Binodini Opera is a grand, immersive production that transports the audience back to the Babu culture, making them feel like true participants in that era. A must-watch for the Bengali audience.
Event Venue
Kala Mandir Auditorium: Kolkata, 48, Shakespeare Sarani, Theatre Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017, India
INR 299
