Popular theatre troupe Ethic staged its celebrated production “Hari Phatibe” at the Nilima Ibrahim Auditorium of Bangladesh Mahila Samity on Baily Road, Dhaka, yesterday. This performance honored the 31st death anniversary of the renowned playwright and director Utpal Dutt.
The staging of “Hari Phatibe” marks a significant moment for Dhaka’s theatre scene, coming after recent political turmoil and student anti-discrimination movements. The play is a tribute to Utpal Dutt, who originally directed it. This production has been re-directed by Mintu Sardar, with Moni Kanchan as the associate director.
“Hari Phatibe” delves into the hidden and dark aspects of the upper class in society. The story follows a writer named Kalikingkar, who decides to expose the injustices committed by influential figures like political leaders, wealthy businessmen, and human rights activists. He plans to unveil his book at a launch event, inviting these figures as guests. When they learn that the book will reveal their true identities and wrongdoings, they desperately beg for forgiveness and plead with Kalikingkar to cancel the launch.
The cast features Hasan Rizvi, Bhavna Hasan, Sukorno Hasan, Monirul Haque Jhalak, Moni Kanchan, Rownak Bishak Shyamoli, Azim Uddin, Nahid, S P Khan Shaon, Rubel Khan, Abir Babu, and Mintu Sardar. Lighting was designed by Tandu Raihan, while Anis Anand handled set and costume design.
The performance of “Hari Phatibe” is a noteworthy event, reflecting the ongoing relevance of Dutt’s work and the resilience of Dhaka’s theatre community.
