‘NARI ADWITIYAS’ stages play ‘Pratibimba’ in Odisha capital

Bhubaneswar: All-women theatre group ‘NARI ADWITIYAS’ today staged its play ‘Pratibimba’ at the old auditorium of Rama Devi Women’s University here.

The play, which revolved around the theme of development and empowerment of tribal women in today’s society, received appreciation from the audience.

The theatre group comprises members who are all prominent personalities in their own fields and have come together to showcase the social, economic, cultural, political and spiritual achievements of women amidst multifarious problems they face and also showcase the sensitive issues of womanhood.  The group exhibits stage shows at regular intervals with innovative and experimental themes.

Conceived, scripted and directed by group secretary Sujata Priyadarshini, who has written several plays meant to spread the cause of women, ‘Pratibimba’ was anchored by Subhalaxmi Mishra – winner of the reputed Chancellor Cup and an Advisor for the group.

The event began with vocal rendition by eminent singer Anindita Das.

As the name signifies, ‘Pratibimba’ is a reflection of how women look at themselves through various experiences in their lifetime. With an exclusive focus on tribal women, the play delved into the complex emotions women go through and how their impulses and behaviour patterns are shaped by the societal structure. The play depicted different emotions of humility, courage, hope, bravery and repentance through the lens of tribal women, some of whom are empowered while some are not.

The producer Manisha’s role was portrayed by Priyadarsini Soumitra Lenka (Director, Operations at Travel Age (P) Ltd) and that of script writer Dina by Tanaya Patnaik (Executive Director, Sambad group).

Sonie Rath (Academic Supervisor, Senior Secondary, KIIT International School) played the role of Bidhi, a journalist, while the humble role of Sabari was essayed by Dr. Sucheta Priyabadini (Chair Professor, Rama Devi Women’s University).

The role of Rangi, a Paraja tribe woman from Koraput, was played by Dr. Sanghamitra Jena (Associate Professor in Sociology, at Rajdhani college).  The character of Jui, a Gara tribe woman was played by Dr Shradha Padhi (independent trainer, coach and consultant) while that of Tulasi, a Baiga tribe woman, was essayed by Dr. Isha Mishra (Associate Professor cum Chairperson, HR & OB Areas at KSOM, KIIT University). Gargi Bhattacharjee (Founder, Zain Foundation) played the role of Dr Kui of Munda tribe from Keonjhar.

Earlier, the theatre group had staged plays revolving around similar themes like ‘Na Mu Kari Paribi’, ‘Ghaata Pratighata’, ‘Nisahaaya’, ‘Abasaada’ and ‘Ajira Trending’.