Bharat Baakya: Exploring Art, Society, and Justice Through the Natya Shastra

Play Overview

‘Bharat Baakya’ is a theatrical work grounded in the rich tradition of Indian drama, inspired by the timeless principles of the Natya Shastra. It explores the deeper messages embedded within Bharat’s ancient text, shedding light on social and political issues of its era. Set during a time of rigid caste systems, the play highlights divine intervention where deities like Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva appoint Bharat Muni to create ‘Roopak,’ which evolved into modern drama.

Bharat Muni blended various genres, arts, and scriptures to create an inclusive artistic expression. Despite immense challenges, he used art to challenge and transform discrimination and injustice, reflecting the timeless struggle for social reform and equity.

Writer

Dr. Nibedita Jena is an award-winning playwright and theatre practitioner working across Odia and Hindi theatre. Her notable works include Odia plays such as Huruda, Giraf, Deha, Aakhi, and Chaitu O Haata—which received the Odisha Sahitya Academy Award in 2011—along with Hindi works like Pukar and Chaitu. She is also the founding editor of Purvaranga, the first research-oriented Odia drama journal.

Director

Stage director Hara Prasad Pattnaik has directed productions including Raag, Dhanu Teera Ra Katha, Kabi Ra Mrutyu, Dhaara, Se Aau Jahna, Bharat Baakya, and Shesha Srabana. He honed his craft for sixteen years under the mentorship of theater guru Shri Subodh Pattnaik of Natya Chetana. He founded Kalakar Theatre in 2022.

Director’s Note

‘Bharata Baakya’ follows the Natyashastra in both acting and stage design, adapted to suit the contemporary era to present relevant events and conflict resolutions. The sound and musical compositions are entirely original.

Group

Founded in 2022 by Hara Prasad Pattnaik and Rajesh Kumar Panda, Kalakar Theatre is a collective of theatre artists focused on meaningful storytelling, social realities, and cultural values through stage expression.