Badal Sircar
Towards a Theatre of Conscience
- Anjum Katyal - Consultant (Publications), Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies (MAKAIAS), Kolkata and Co-Director, Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival
The first full-length study of Badal Sircar, who brought theatre to the streets and to the masses in India!
Badal Sircar (1925-2011) is one of the most important and influential figures in the history of post-independence Indian theatre. As a playwright, he contributed seminal texts which have inspired the country’s leading directors and continue to be produced by younger groups. In terms of form, he was responsible for Third (later called Free) Theatre, an urban theatre which was alternative, non-proscenium, mobile and very physical. As a theorist and philosopher of Indian theatre, he opened up the discourse to include concerns with democratic human interaction and a search for a more just and equitable society. As a teacher and mentor, he traveled widely across the country holding workshops which had a deep impact on hundreds of theatre workers, including some major directors.
This book is a full-length, detailed study of Badal Sircar’s life and work, with its three distinct phases: the playwriting for the proscenium stage, with path-breaking texts like Evam Indrajit, Pagla Ghoda and Baki Itihas; the departure to non-proscenium physical theatre focused on the actor, with its social critique and commitment to conscientisation; and the dissemination phase of extensive workshops and mentoring.
‘Anjum Katyal’s book is a valuable chronicle of the evolution of Badal Sircar’s theatre…. A valuable record for all theatre lovers.’
An engrossing new biography of Kolkata’s theatre legend…. Lucidly written study on a man who displayed the kind of mettle, passion and morality rarely available in individuals.
A critical look at Badal Sircar’s oeuvre fills an important gap in the history of Indian theatre…. Katyal’s book, which explores new ground by devoting entire chapters to gender and technique in Sircar’s theatre, is perhaps the most comprehensive critical work on him. It will appeal to theatre scholars and practitioners alike-not only for its rigorous scholarship but also because of the fascinating stories it narrates.
A theatre lover needs to read this book. Those studying this art, it will complement and supplement their learning. But for ardent admirer’s of Badal Sircar’s craft, it is a must.
[The book] throws light on a generous and unusual man and his unwavering commitment to his work… Sircar’s life and work not only inspires those involved in the theatre and the other arts but lay readers as well.
[The book] is a full-length, detailed study of Badal Sircar’s life and work… Badal da’s journey of exploration and documentation began and ended as a theatre by, of and for the middle class — his own class.
“Katyal’s book, which explores new ground by devoting entire chapters to gender and technique in Sircar’s theatre, is perhaps the most comprehensive critical work on him”
This book is a very welcome read indeed…it is crucially importance for young theatre artists to know how much of what appears to be new even today, has already been done by Sircar in his prime.
Anjum Katyal’s book is useful- it helps introduce a whole new generation of theatre makers to one of the commanding figures of Indian Theatres.