Play
‘Bharat Baakya’ is a theatrical work grounded in the rich tradition of Indian drama, inspired by the timeless principles of the Natya Shastra. It explores the deeper, often overlooked messages embedded within Bharat’s ancient text, shedding light on the pressing social and political issues of its era. Set in a time when the caste system was rigidly enforced, the play underscores the pivotal role of divine intervention, where deities like Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva appoint Bharat Muni to create a revolutionary form of entertainment called ‘Roopak,’ which later evolved into ‘Natya’ or ‘Natak’ (drama) in modern times.
Bharat Muni undertook the challenging task of blending various genres – crafts, art forms, scriptures, knowledge to provide guidance, and teaching – to create a new, inclusive form of artistic expression. Despite the immense difficulty, he remained resolute, refusing to give up on his mission. The play portrays Bharat Muni’s unwavering determination to use the power of art to challenge and transform the deeply ingrained discrimination and injustice of his time. His promise to work tirelessly toward a better world reflects the timeless struggle for social reform and equity, making the play a powerful commentary on the intersection of art, society, and justice.
Writer
Dr. Nibedita Jena is an award-winning playwright and theatre practitioner working across Odia and Hindi theatre. She has written 32 Odia plays, including Huruda, Giraf, Deha, and Aakhi, along with notable Hindi works such as Pukar and the translated Hindi play Chaitu. Her Odia play Chaitu O Haata received the Odisha Sahitya Academy Award (2011).
A researcher and editor, she is also the founding editor of Purvaranga, the first research-oriented Odia drama journal. Her play Bharat Vaakya continues her engagement with socially reflective and critically conscious theatre.
Director
An inspiring harmony of seasoned maturity and youthful, indomitable passion defines the artistic journey of stage director Hara Prasad Pattnaik. His refined vision and compelling stagecraft have found powerful expression in acclaimed productions such as Raag, Dhanu Teera Ra Katha, Kabi Ra Mrutyu, Dhaara, Se Aau Jahna, Bharat Baakya,Shesha Srabana among others – earning him recognition in the theatre world at a remarkably young age.
This creative ascent is shaped by an unwavering devotion to theatre, a restless pursuit of innovation, and a deep-rooted love for literature. For sixteen formative years, he honed his craft under the mentorship of the celebrated theatre guru Shri Subodh Pattnaik of Natya Chetana, absorbing both discipline and artistic depth.
Academically trained with an MBA yet driven by an uncompromising artistic spirit, Hara Prasad Pattnaik founded Kalakar Theatre in 2022 as a living canvas for his original ideas and creative convictions. United by a shared dream, artists from all generations contribute to the collective strength of the ensemble, transforming the Director’s vision into vibrant theatrical reality.
Director’s Note
‘Bharata Baakya’ is a play in a distinct style. In this production, Natyashastra has been followed in both acting and stage design. According to the principles of the Natyashastra, the play has been adapted to suit the contemporary era, presenting events and incidents relevant to the present time, and showing the ways in which conflicts and challenges within it can be resolved.The style of the play moves forward by drawing upon all its established systems and techniques. The sound and musical compositions in the play are entirely original, giving it a unique artistic flavor.
Group
Founded in 2022 by Hara Prasad Pattnaik & Rajesh Kumar Panda, Kalakar Theatre is a vibrant collective of theatre artists driven by a shared passion for meaningful storytelling and artistic excellence. Rooted in literary depth and contemporary sensibility, the group strives to explore human emotions, social realities, and cultural values through powerful stage expression.
With artists from diverse age groups and creative backgrounds, Kalakar Theatre believes in collaboration, discipline, and continuous experimentation. The ensemble works as a close-knit family, where tradition meets innovation and collective effort transforms ideas into impactful performances.
Dedicated to nurturing original thought and theatrical integrity, Kalakar Theatre has steadily emerged as a dynamic presence in the theatre landscape, committed to enriching the cultural fabric through sincere, thoughtful, and socially resonant productions.