Bombagarher Raja An Exploration Of Sukumar Ray’s Whimsical World

Shankha Bhattacharyya

On the evening of Saturday, August 31, a special theatrical performance took place at the Triguna Sen Auditorium, nestled within the vibrant Jadavpur University campus. This event was organised by the Ballygunge Government High School Ex-Students’ Association, a group deeply rooted in the cultural and educational fabric of Calcutta. The association’s members, driven by a shared passion for the arts and their alma mater, staged the play Bombagarher Raja, a production that not only entertained but also paid homage to the genius of Sukumar Ray, one of Bengal’s most loved literary figures.

The event held a dual significance. It was both a celebration of artistic creativity and a tribute to the legacy of the school’s distinguished alumni. In a gesture of reverence and appreciation, the association honoured their President, Rajesh Sharma—a celebrated figure in the world of stage and film—and Chanchal Bhattacharya, the talented poet-playwright responsible for bringing Ray’s whimsical world to life on stage. The entire program was dedicated to the memory of Shri Shambhu Mitra, an illustrious alumnus of the school, revered in Indian theatre for his groundbreaking contributions. A close associate of Mitra shared anecdotes and lesser-known facts about the legend, enriching the evening with personal insights that resonated deeply with the audience.

The Play: An Exploration of Sukumar Ray’s Whimsical World
Bombagarher Raja is a theatrical adaptation that brilliantly encapsulates the absurdity and wit that characterise Sukumar Ray’s works. Chanchal Bhattacharya, the playwright, deftly wove together elements from Ray’s stories—Drighangchu, RajarAsukh, and Paji Peter—along with three of his poems—Nera Beltolay Jay Kobaar, Gandho Bichar, and Bombagarher Raja. Rather than attempting to infuse the play with any overt political messages or deep philosophical musings, Bhattacharya aimed to create a performance that was purely enjoyable, infused with the clever satire that Ray is renowned for.

The setting of Bombagarh, a kingdom ruled by the foolish King Mucukunda, is a place where logic and reason are turned on their heads. Floods occur during droughts, and famines break out in the midst of heavy rains, reflecting the topsy-turvy nature of the land. The King, armed with nothing more than a blunt sword, is determined to wage battles, embodying a ruler whose lack of wisdom is matched only by his misplaced confidence. His queen, perpetually in tears, and his simple-minded brother-in-law, Chandraketu, add to the absurdity, creating a world where chaos reigns supreme.

Performance and Execution
The execution of the play was marked by a strong sense of teamwork among the cast. Each actor brought their character to life with enthusiasm, contributing to the overall success of the performance. One actor, in particular, who portrayed a shirtless man sitting under a tree, captured the audience’s attention, delivering a performance that stood out for its intensity and authenticity. Although there were minor flaws in the performance, the director, Bishwaranjan Nandi, is expected to refine these in future shows, ensuring that the play continues to improve with each staging.

The technical aspects of the production were equally impressive. Babloo Sarkar’s lighting design played a crucial role in creating the play’s dramatic moments, with well-timed lighting shifts that heightened the impact of key scenes. Nantu Dutta’s stage setup was both functional and imaginative, providing a fitting backdrop for the fantastical world of Bombagarh. The music, composed by Swarup Pal and Swati Pal, added an extra layer of engagement, complementing the action on stage and helping to draw the audience into the story.

Audience Reception
Under the meticulous direction of Bishwaranjan Nandi, Bombagarher Raja was a resounding success. The production, rich with the essence of Sukumar Ray’s distinctive style, was met with widespread acclaim from the audience. The intelligent execution of the play, combined with its light-hearted humour and sharp satire, left a lasting impression. The Ballygunge Government High School Ex-Students’ Association succeeded in their goal of providing an evening of delightful entertainment, leaving the audience with memories of Bombagarher Raja that will be cherished for years to come.