Udaipur, Dec 10: The cultural spirit of Tripura took centre stage at Udaipur on Wednesday as the state-level Natya Utsav began at Rajarshi Kalakshetra, with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha inaugurating the 15-day theatre celebration.

In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted that theatre has always been a powerful medium to spark dialogue and influence social behaviour. He said that contemporary theatre must evolve with changing times and speak directly to the concerns of today’s youth.

The Chief Minister called for stronger promotion of both stage and street theatre, noting that wider public participation can only be achieved when performances resonate with community realities. “Understanding the pulse of society is essential. Theatre must reflect the emotions, struggles, and expectations of the people,” he said, extending his best wishes to participating artists.

During the programme, the Chief Minister also expressed concern over the shrinking cultural space in some neighbouring states, stating that resources should be channelled towards nurturing art and literature rather than divisive narratives.

Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy underlined Tripura’s deep-rooted theatrical heritage dating back to the royal era. He said that theatre has historically shaped public conscience and that artistes carry the responsibility of upholding moral and cultural values through their productions.

Information & Cultural Affairs (ICA) Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee informed that 33 theatre groups from across Tripura are taking part in this edition of the festival, which will run till December 24. 

Over 600 artistes are expected to perform in a lineup that includes two plays each on weekdays and three on weekends. Last year, 38 groups had participated.

Welcoming the performers, he said the ICA Department is committed to creating opportunities for local talent and encouraged the public to attend the festival in large numbers.

The event was attended by MLAs Abhishek Debroy, Jitendra Majumder and Rampada Jamatia, Gomati Zila Sabhadhipati Debal Debroy, Udaipur Municipal Council chairman Shital Chandra Majumder, Cultural Advisory Committee chairman Subrata Chakraborty, veteran theatre personality Shanti Mohan Rakshit and other dignitaries.

The inaugural evening concluded with the staging of 'Kabila' by the West Tripura-based group Kalabhumi.