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Journalism of Courage
All worlds a stage. And Binodini Dasi (1863-1941) played her part. Binodini belonged to the first generation of female actors of Bengali public theatre. She made her debut at the age of 11 with a one-line part as Draupadis handmaiden at Calcuttas Great National Theatre in 1874. She left the stage at the height of her fame in 1887,when still in her early twenties. The most eventful years of Binodinis life were spent in Star Theatre,in the setting up of which she played a key role.
In 1883,a rich businessman,Gurmukh Rai,offered to build a theatre for the company if Binodini agreed to become his mistress. Under pressure from her colleagues,and flattered that the new theatre would bear her name,Binodini agreed. However the theatre was registered as Star,because it was felt that naming it after a courtesan would be bad for business.
Lost love,the death of her young daughter and her alienation from stage Binodini penned it all in her two autobiographies Aamar Katha (My Life) and Aamar Abhinetri Jeebon (My Life in Theatre),which have been translated into English. These also present an account of the state of theatre as well social and political conditions during the time,especially the status of women.
Now,the life and times of Binodini will come alive on stage in Suchetak Rang Manchs new Punjabi production,Nati Binodini. Anita Shabdeesh,director and lead actor,says she was moved by the actors story and the irony of how even after more than 140 years,life in theatre is not easy for a woman. Binodini played powerful roles,including those of various goddesses,still she was considered a prostitute by her own people,and ironically not by the audience, says Shabdeesh.
An intricate and emotional theme,Shabdeesh feels many will connect to Binodinis unique life and her concern with theatre and the status of women in the field. While the play is in Punjabi,the setting is Calcuttas stage in the late 19th century.
The play will be staged at Tagore Theatre on June 10,7 pm
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