Historic Achievement as “Behula-Lakhindar” Completes 500 Performances

A major cultural milestone has been achieved by Birbhum Sanskriti Bahini of Labhpur. Their celebrated production “Behula-Lakhindar” has completed its 500th performance, creating a new chapter in the history of Bengali theatre.

The special 500th performance was held on 13 September at Sanskriti Bhavan, Labhpur, in the presence of distinguished guests including public representatives, administrative officials, and cultural personalities.

Revival of a Folk Tradition

The article explains that “Behula-Lakhindar” is based on the traditional Bengali folk narrative from Manasamangal. In 2007, director Ujjal Mukhopadhyay reimagined this well-known folk story through the innovative medium of Human Puppet Theatre (Manab Putul Natya).

This theatrical form combines live acting with movements and expressions inspired by traditional puppetry, creating a unique stage language.

A Unique Theatrical Achievement

The report highlights that:

• The production has been performed continuously since 2007.
• It has travelled across numerous districts of West Bengal.
• Shows have also been staged in states such as Assam, Odisha, Meghalaya, Bihar, Jharkhand, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh.
• The production has gained recognition among both theatre audiences and cultural scholars.

The article notes that very few Bengali theatre productions have sustained such a long and successful performance history.

International Recognition

The production received recognition from an international record-verification authority.

According to the article:

• Documentation of performances was submitted for review.
• The production’s originality and sustained performance history were examined.
• The play was recognized for creating a unique theatrical form based on Bengali folk-puppet traditions.

The article mentions that the achievement brought international attention to Birbhum’s cultural heritage.

Cultural Significance

The report stresses that “Behula-Lakhindar” is more than a stage production. It represents:

• Bengali folk culture
• Traditional storytelling
• Folk performance traditions
• Preservation of rural heritage
• Creative innovation in theatre

The success of the play is presented as a source of pride for Labhpur, Birbhum, and Bengal as a whole.

Director’s Statement

Director Ujjal Mukhopadhyay is quoted as saying that the recognition belongs not only to the theatre group but also to the artists, supporters, and audiences who helped sustain the production over many years.

He expresses hope that the achievement will encourage future generations to engage with folk culture and traditional theatre.

Future Vision

The article concludes that Birbhum Sanskriti Bahini intends to continue promoting folk theatre and cultural education through new productions and training activities, ensuring that Bengal’s traditional cultural heritage remains relevant for future generations.

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Photograph Captions

Main Photograph

Members of Birbhum Sanskriti Bahini being honoured during the celebration of the 500th performance of Behula-Lakhindar.