The vibrant tapestry of Bengali folk heritage is set to take centre stage as the Bhairabi Geetranga troupe announces its much-anticipated three-day cultural extravaganza, the ‘Geetranga Festival’. Established with the noble ambition of rejuvenating indigenous theatrical forms, the festival seeks to bridge the gap between ancient rhythmic narratives and the sensibilities of a contemporary audience.
Starting on 31 January 2026, the festival promises an immersive journey through the heart of Bengal’s soul. By blending musical theatre, traditional lore, and cinematic brilliance, the organisers hope to foster a “living connection” between the performer and the spectator—a bond that is often lost in the digital age.
A Journey Through Cinema and Stage
The festivities commence with a cinematic tribute at the Bhairabi headquarters in Dhanmondi. In a nod to the intellectual and satirical roots of Bengali art, the opening night features a screening of a seminal work by the legendary Ritwik Ghatak. This choice underscores the troupe’s commitment to art that challenges the status quo while celebrating local identity.
The momentum shifts to the prestigious Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy for the subsequent days. The second evening, titled Geetal Sandhya (An Evening of Song), will transform Studio Stage-2 into a sanctuary of melody. The grand finale features the premiere of ‘Sonai’, a signature Geetranga production written and directed by Ilias Nabi Faisal. This performance is expected to be a masterclass in the Geetranga style—a genre that intertwines dialogue, music, and movement to tell stories of the soil.
The Festival Schedule at a Glance
| Date | Time | Event | Venue |
| 31 January | 18:00 | Film Screening: Hirak Rajar Deshe | Bhairabi Office, Dhanmondi |
| 1 February | 19:00 | Geetal Sandhya (Musical Evening) | Stage-2 (Chilekotha), Shilpakala Academy |
| 2 February | 18:00 | Stage Performance: Sonai | Studio Theatre Hall, Shilpakala Academy |
Preserving Heritage for the Next Generation
Speaking on the essence of the event, founder and director Ilias Nabi Faisal remarked:
“To us, Geetranga is not merely a performance; it is an artistic dialect rooted in the very soil of Bengal. Through this festival, we aim to reintroduce folk drama to the youth, ensuring our cultural legacy remains a living, breathing entity rather than a relic of the past.”
As a non-political and non-profit organization, Bhairabi Geetranga has long been a bastion for alternative theatre. By offering free admission, the troupe ensures that high-quality cultural experiences remain accessible to all, though they advise early arrival due to the intimate nature of the venues.