A still from ‘Bhasaili Re…’ Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Birati Samuho Performers Collective, a Kolkata-based troupe that aims to reinterpret folk tales with modern sensibilities, brings to Bengaluru two mythological tales, each told from the perspective of often sidelined female characters. with Atho Hidimba Kotha And Bhasaili Re…Audiences will hear the unfiltered voices of Hidimba, a fierce tribal woman from the Mahabharata and Behula, a devoted wife from the medieval lore of Bengal. Through these feminist retellings, the collective recovers stories of survival, strength, and rebellion – stories that, despite their ancient origins, resonate in today’s world.

“Many of these stories are rooted in painful oppression, but there are also stories of survival and alternative possibilities,” says Titas Dutta, founder and director of Birati Samuho. For Titas, who has more than a decade of theatre-making experience, Atho Hidimba Kotha Offers a rare perspective on the Mahabharata by focusing on Hidimba, a character who is often marginalised. On the contrary, Bhasaili Re… Perms Behula from a medieval Bengali ballad mansa mangal kavya To consider her journey through a modern, feminist lens.

A still from ‘Bhasaili Re…’ Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

According to Titas, these plays are more than reinterpretations. They act as mirrors that reflect contemporary social struggles by challenging deep-rooted, often limiting traditions. They have also been deliberately composed in Bengali, staying close to the cultural rhythms of rural Bengal and keeping the performances portable, making the experience accessible across social and economic divides.

trip to titas Atho Hidimba Kotha It began with a seemingly unrelated incident – ​​an Indian political figure’s comment suggesting that when women take on traditionally “masculine” responsibilities, they take on “rakshasa gunas” (demonic qualities). Influenced by this label and its gendered implications, Titas drew on Hidimba’s story as an “indigenous woman, single parent and provider” whose powers are overshadowed by the “patriarchy” that has shaped her role in the Mahabharata. Has been reduced.

“Looking at history, I feel the same way about female and gay narratives in this country,” she says. “Marginalized people are rarely accepted. Atho Hidimba Kotha “Subverts the typical perspective, allowing Hidimba’s voice to shape the story.”

Second production in the lineup of Birti Samuha, Bhasaili Re…Tells a story that, despite being rooted in folklore, connects with today’s audiences. This solo performance depicts Behula, traditionally seen as an ideal wife, as a complex individual who is questioning the direction of her life. Under the guidance of Dutta, Bhasaili Re… A collaborative storytelling style has been adopted, integrating elements of the Indian folk theater traditions of Tamasha, Nautanki and Jatra to engage and challenge the audience.

Still from ‘Etho Hidimba Kotha’ Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

“Our theater is an intellectual interaction with them – where satire, parody and accessible language allow us to make strong social criticism. In Bhasaili Re…For example, the focus is on the gap between Behula’s experience and the societal expectations placed on women.

As a theater maker who identifies as queer, Titas uses her platform to explore themes of gender identity and social marginalization – which is her personal journey after training at the London International School of Performing Arts. Is a reflection of. Nevertheless, she emphasizes that her work is a group effort, emphasizing that the Samuho team is central in transforming these heavy subjects into something “vibrant and daring”.

With the first showcase of biracial groups in Bengaluru, Titus is already looking forward to future interactions with the city’s creative circles. “We hope to return, not just to perform but to collaborate, engage in conversation and explore shared visions with other groups and audiences here,” she says.

the troupe will stage Atho Hidimba Kotha At the 20th festival of Ranga Shankara in JP Nagar on 8th November. Bhasaili Re… There will be two performances: on November 7 at Courtyard Kuta in Kengeri and on November 9 at Beru Art Space in Ramamurthy Nagar.