Dance Dramas | “The actor dances out the story through a complex gesture language, a form that, in its universal appeal, cuts across the multi-language barrier of the subcontinent.”
Chandalika
The story of “Chandalika" by Rabindranath Tagore carries powerful themes of social injustice, human dignity, and redemption. The narrative focuses on the plight of Chandalika, a young woman from the "untouchable" or "outcast" caste, and her journey toward self-realization and empowerment.
BAFA has created and performed several variations of this dance drama over the years. Each time exploring key messages from a different angle.
Mayar Khela
"Mayar Khela" (translated as "The Game of Illusion") by Rabindranath Tagore is a symbolic story that delves into themes of love, illusion, and the conflict between the material world and spiritual truths.
Various iterations of BAFA’s production of Mayar Khela, originally directed by the late Guru Anup K. Das and later reimagined by his student Margia Sriti, were performed both in New York and Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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Rabindranath Tagore | Chitrangada
Direction: Anup K Das | Production: BAFA
Chitrangada is a lyrical dance-drama by Rabindranath Tagore, inspired by a story from the Mahabharata. It tells the tale of Princess Chitrangada of Manipur, a warrior raised as a son, who falls in love with the demigod Arjuna. Struggling between her strength and femininity, Chitrangada embarks on a journey of self-discovery, love, and empowerment. Tagore's poetic retelling explores themes of identity, gender, and inner beauty, set against a rich backdrop of music and dance.
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Jasimuddin | Nokshi Kathar Maat
Direction: Anup K Das | Production: BAFA
"Nokshi Kathar Maat," meaning "The Field of the Embroidered Quilt,” is a tragic folk tale in Bengali verse by Jasimuddin, focusing on the love story of Rupai and Saju, and the Nakshi Kantha (embroidered quilt) that becomes a symbol of their tragedy.
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Manoj Mitra | Brishtir Chayachobi
Direction: Shireen Bakul
Production: BAFA
