JU to host four-day theatre festival

A four-day theatre festival will begin at Jahangirnagar University (JU) on April 28, bringing together leading theatre groups in a programme that runs until May 1.

Organised by Jahangirnagar Theatre, the festival titled “Natya Utsab 2026” will be held under the slogan “Manush tumi beche thako shishur hashi niye.” Performances will take place daily at 6:30 pm at the Selim Al Deen Muktamancha, organisers said.

The opening day will feature “Rongmohol”, staged by Dhaka Theatre. On the second day, Jahangirnagar Theatre will present its production “Ashwatthama”.

On April 30, a special segment titled “Madhyorater Kobita O Gaan” will be held at Transport Square on campus, featuring midnight poetry recitations and musical performances. The festival will conclude on May 1 with a reunion programme at Room 3 of Zahir Raihan Auditorium.

Several awards will be presented during the festival. This year, the Jahangirnagar Theatre Padak will be awarded to veteran actor Dilara Zaman. Educationist Arun Kumar Basak will receive a special recognition, while cultural activist and theatre personality Mohsina Akhter will be honoured with the Alok Kumar Roy Padak.

Speaking about the festival theme, Jahangirnagar Theatre general secretary Priya Saha said the slogan reflects an effort to reconnect people with simplicity and emotional openness.

She said increasing social pressure and expectations were reducing people’s ability to find joy in everyday life.

“Sadness is a part of human existence, but it should not dominate it. We want to remind people to view life with clarity and liveliness,” she said.

A special midnight poetry and music session on April 30 will also be dedicated to the memory of Kanishka Majhi, a former troupe member who recently died.

Priya Saha said the tribute also carries a broader message about preserving the value of life and creativity among young artistes.