To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the courageous rebellion of the ethnic people, known as Hul held in 1855-56, the Shidhu Kahnu Hul Celebration Committee, arranged a programme on June 27 at Jagodal in Rajshahi district where a majority of Santals live.

The Santals participated in a colourful rally. The cultural events included dance, music and drama staged by Aranyak Natya Dal, a Dhaka-based popular theatrical troupe. Aranyak staged Raaraang, a play by Mamunur Rashid on the struggle of Santals for their rights. The protagonist of the play, Alfred Shoran is a historical character who sacrificed his life for his community during a conflict between the Bangalees and Santals.

Playwright and director of Raaraang, Mamunur Rashid was the chief guest at the celebration. The members of Aranyak participated in the colourful rally and sang the songs of Raaraang, which won plaudits from the ethnic people. "After the cultural events presented by the ethnic minority, we staged Raaraang in the remote area where the audience are from the ethnic community," said Mamunur Rashid.

How about the impact of the play on the ethnic people? Mamun said, "Seeing the play they realised that many Bangalees empathise with them. They appreciated our presentation of Santal culture in Raaraang."

"On June 26, we staged the same play in Rajshahi district. A sizeable number of Santals came to watch the play. Earlier we had staged Raaraang amongst the Garo, an ethnic minority living in greater Mymensingh region, in December 2004, and amongst the Chakma community in last February. In each area, Raaraang delivered the message that the ethnic minorities are being oppressed. Moreover, it was an opportunity for the different communities to get acquainted with diverse cultures," added Mamun.