16th August: Then and Now Taki Saraswati Natya Kala Kendra Produces A Gem

Chanchal Bhattacharya

August 16, 1946. Riots had broken out in various parts of Calcutta. That day was the Muslim League’s “Direct Action Day.” A massive gathering by the Muslim League had been organised at the Maidan at 3 PM. All shops were shut. A tense and fearful atmosphere prevailed everywhere. Against this backdrop, on April 29, 2025, Taki Saraswati Natya Kala Kendra successfully staged the play “16th August: Then and Now” at 6:30 PM at Tapan Theatre, written and directed by Prabir Mondal.

The play is divided into two parts. The first half is based on the events of August 16, 1946, and the second half reflects the contemporary situation in Kashmir. “The tradition continues”—just as it was then, so it is now. Only the characters have changed. The underlying question remains: “When will India once again attain its rightful, exalted place in the world?”

Playwright, director, and actor Prabir Mondal deserves praise for his bold and stirring endeavour, and even more so for his daring execution of this nearly impossible task, which he accomplished with the help of his fellow performers.

With powerful acting and tight teamwork, the play earned the audience’s admiration. Prabir Mondal’s performance stood out—truly a one-man army. Matching his performance were Dr. Krishnarjun Mukherjee, Jyotirmoy Bhattacharya, Advocate Pritidipta, Shukla Banik, Arpan, Ganesh, Abhijit, Isha, Baikuntha Dubey, Arun, Adi, Bibhas, Ashok, Nihar, Reena, Amit, Tushar, Babu Bhai, Soma Dey, Swapnadeep, Swaroop, Tapan, Subrata, Shampa, Aditi Chakraborty, and Professor Arindam Bhattacharya.

Badal Das showed his skill in lighting design. The set was beautifully designed by Ajit Ray and Soumya Das. The impressive background score was by Rana Das and Prabir Mondal. Makeup was done by Samir Ghosh.

Taki Saraswati Natya Kala Kendra received unreserved praise from the audience for taking on such a powerful subject and presenting “16th August: Then and Now” under the compelling authorship and direction of Prabir Mondal.