Mohila Samity assures support to troupe, reschedules play for 14-15 April

A group identifying itself as "Touhidi Janata" sent a letter to the Mohila Samity in the capital on Sunday opposing theatre shows at its venue, but the authorities said they would not give in.

After informing theatre troupe Prangonemor of the objection, it later confirmed that their play adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore's 'Shesher Kobita' would proceed as scheduled.

The issue came to light through a Facebook post by actress and director Nuna Afroz, a key member of the theatre troupe Prangonemor, on Sunday morning.

Mohila Samity cancels stage play of ‘Shesher Kabita’ amid threat from ‘Tawhidi Janata’

According to Nuna Afroz, their play 'Shesher Kobita' was scheduled to be staged on Sunday, on the occasion of Chaitra Sankranti, and on Monday, marking Pahela Baishakh, at the Mohila Samity auditorium. The team had rented the hall, completed promotions, and made all necessary preparations.

In her post, Nuna wrote, "Just now, Mohila Samity called to inform us that 'Touhidi Janata' sent them a letter demanding that no performances be held there."

"We have already paid for the two-day rental, completed our publicity and incurred expenses in every sector. Our team has been working tirelessly. We asked Mohila Samity to seek assistance from the administration. If the administration expresses inability, then perhaps we won't proceed."

She also posted a letter to the Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, urging to resolve the situation.

In protest of this unexpected situation, members of Prangonemor announced a demonstration in front of Mohila Samity at 5:30 pm on Sunday. However, the protest was later suspended following assurances from the authorities.

Later on Sunday afternoon, Nuna Afroz made another Facebook post confirming that the issue had been resolved.

"Respected audience, journalists, theatre colleagues, and well-wishers — the state administration and Mohila Samity authorities have informed us that they are taking full responsibility to ensure our performances can proceed without disruption. They requested us not to hold a protest. As our primary task is to perform theatre; and since the authorities have taken responsibility - we are suspending the protest."

She further informed that while the administration requested them to hold Sunday's performance, it was already 3:35 pm by then, making it impossible to organise the show. 

Instead, the Mohila Samity authorities rescheduled the 13 April performance for 15 April, while the show scheduled for Pahela Baishakh on 14 April will go on as planned.

Nuna also apologised to the audience for the inconvenience and requested ticket-holders for 13 April to either attend the 15 April show or, if possible, be accommodated on 14 April.

For further details, the troupe has provided a contact number: 01749826418.