'NOHI DEBI NOHI SHAMANNYA NARI' celebrates the spirit of Chitrangada

A one-hour dance drama, 'Nohi debi nohi shamannya nari', that potrays the multiple personas of the mythological princess warrior, Chitrangada, was recently staged at Chhayanaut Cultural Centre. Written by Rabindranath Tagore, it narrates the story of Chitrangada, who is raised as a boy, as her family did not have a male heir. However, when she falls in love with a warrior hero, she decides to embrace her femininity.

Sweety Das Chowdhury and Naznin Hasan Chumki, with their graceful, yet bold movements, played Chitrangada. The show began with Sweety Das Chowdhury performing a sword dance remarkably, along with dancers Ariful Arnab, Arnab Sharma, Ria, Anika,  Prionty,  Madhurima, Lokkhi, Mahabub, Shurojit and Rony. Throughout the show, these dancers played the roles of hunters, shokhis (friends) and others. Warrior hero Arjun, played by Amit Chowdhury, was also seen mediating in a corner, in the beginning. The scene symbolised Chitrangada's meeting with Arjun in the jungle, where she fell in love with him. The show then moved onto portraying Chitrangada's journey of winning Arjun's affection.

The dancers of the evening recreated the tale of Chitrangada with Manipuri, Bharatanatyam, Thang Ta, and Contemporary dance forms. Amit Chowdhury, with his powerful Bharatanatyam steps amused Chitraganda on the stage and the audience simultaneously. Naznin Hasan Chumki, who gave a fierce performance, was the only one who had dialogues, which she delivered with utmost brilliance. Madan – The God of Love, was another significant element of the show. Arthy Ahmed, donning a white gown, beautifully played the role of Madan. In addition, Manipuri dancers from Sylhet played live percussion, leaving the audience mesmerised.

Nohi debi noh ishamannya nari was choreographed by Sweety Das Chowdhury. The artistic direction of the dance drama was done by Lubna Marium. Among others, Shimu Dey, Nirjher Chowdhury and Turjo served as vocalists of the show.