Raghunath

Experience Raghunath, a powerful theatre production from Assam that brings together a deeply personal story of grief with larger questions about society, governance, faith, and basic human needs.

Set in a flood-prone village in Assam, the play follows Raghunath, a father who suffers an unbearable loss when his daughter dies because there is no bridge to help her safely reach school during the floods. Unable to accept that her death could have been prevented, he begins searching for a way to bring attention to the problems faced by his entire community.

Raghunath eventually develops an unusual plan. He spreads a rumour that an ancient sacred idol has been discovered in his home. His hope is that the supposed discovery will attract the government and media to the village. He believes that this attention could lead to the construction of a temple and, along with it, the bridge, school, and other basic infrastructure his village desperately needs.

As his plan unfolds, Raghunath raises difficult questions about how far an ordinary person might go when repeated appeals for change are ignored. The story explores the conflict between personal grief and collective responsibility, while also asking whether an unusual act of deception can ever be justified when the goal is to protect a community.

Written and directed by Bidyut Kumar Nath, the production comes from Abhimukh, Nagaon, a theatre group from Assam. The play has earned significant recognition, winning six awards at the Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META) 2024, including Best Production, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Original Script, Best Light Design, and Best Stage Design.

The production offers audiences more than a dramatic story. It creates an opportunity to reflect on rural life, infrastructure, loss, faith, and the struggles of communities whose basic needs can remain unheard.

If you enjoy meaningful theatre, regional Indian stories, powerful drama, and socially relevant performances, Raghunath offers an engaging and thought-provoking theatre experience.

• Experience Award-Winning Theatre: Witness a production that received six META 2024 awards, including Best Production and Best Director.
• A Powerful Human Story: Follow Raghunath’s emotional journey through grief, loss, hope, and determination.
• Explore Rural India: Get a glimpse into the challenges faced by communities affected by floods, poor infrastructure, and limited access to basic facilities.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: Reflect on faith, governance, social inequality, community needs, and the lengths people may go to seek change.
• Strong Assamese Storytelling: Experience a compelling regional Indian theatre production rooted in the social realities of Assam.
• Meaningful Theatre Experience: Enjoy a play that goes beyond entertainment and encourages audiences to think about real social issues.
• For Theatre Lovers: A great choice for anyone who appreciates powerful performances, socially relevant stories, and contemporary Indian theatre.