THE highly anticipated musical event 'Raktakarabi O Rabindranath: Ekaaler Sandhane', or 'A Stellar Evening Celebrating Tagore's Legacy' was held at Dewan Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah in Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (C) Chee Wen, USJ1, Subang Jaya on Aug 17.
The event featured a rich tapestry of dances and short plays that paid homage to the poetry and literary works of famed Bengali poet and Indian independence fighter Rabindranath Tagore. It focused on his best-known play 'Raktakarabi' and starred talented Malaysian children and artistes from Kolkata, India.
Organised by the Malaysian Bengalee Association, present were the association's president, Sukhendu Choudhury, and its main sponsor, Datuk Seri Dr Shamir Kumar Nandy.
Three dance groups involving 13 youngsters entertained the event's 270 guests and they were led by choreographers Poulomi Moitra, Ranjita Roy, and Sohini Chakraborty.
These groups performed dances to Tagore's songs 'Bandh Bhenge Dao, Rangiye Diye Jao', and 'Ore Ai Re'.
The youngsters' enchanting and colourful performances embodied the spirit of youthful creativity.
The highlight of the evening at 8pm was 'Rabindranath and Raktakarabi in Today's Lens', by the Indian artistes.
Bringing Tagore's famous play to life with a contemporary twist, the actors and actresses dressed in splendid and stylish outfits explored the themes of oppression, liberation, and the resilience of the human spirit.
The play was set in a dystopian world where a tyrannical ruler exploited the labour of his subjects.
The story revolves around a brave young woman named Nandini who led the masses against the cruel emperor and brought hope and healing to the land.
Directed and narrated by Shri Debasish Sen Sharma, the piece featured singer Sounak Chattopadhyay, Tnushree Chakraborty, and dancer Debamitra Sengupta.
Choudhury said the play's profound theme and message resonated deeply with all Malaysians and Indians. It focused on issues that remained relevant around the world in the 21st century.
"Tagore was a great visionary whose messages are timeless. We must ensure that the younger generations appreciate his works."
Choudhury hailed the performers as powerful and original.
"This brilliant ensemble has come up with an unforgettable performance of Tagore's most beloved play. It blends tradition and modernity and highlights their deep understanding of his works."
Choudhury said the performers beautifully bridged the past and present and left an indelible mark on the audience.