Sundarban Gatha

BotTala Production-8 Sundarban Gatha (Tale of Sundarbans) (20 August 2016)

Sundarban Gatha is an allegorical and protest-oriented play that examines the devastating impact of human "development" on the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest. The narrative begins in a haunting, museum-like setting where the spirits of dead trees and animals regain their voices. They recount how coal-based projects, specifically the Rampal power plant, have transformed a once-vibrant ecosystem into a wasteland of smoke, ash, and toxic waste. The play illustrates how the constant movement of coal-laden ships through forest rivers and the discharge of industrial waste have endangered the lives of bees, kingfishers, deer, and ancient mangroves. Through the character of the 'Human,' the play shows that mankind is ultimately not immune to the environmental catastrophe they create. This character wanders in deep regret, realizing that the destruction of the forest has led to the death of his own family due to pollution. Bagha Mia (the Royal Bengal Tiger), the forest's guardian, expresses fierce rage against this human-led annihilation. However, the play is more than a lament; it ends with a powerful call to action. Bonbibi, the protector deity of the forest, appears to break the spell of this nightmare, declaring that there is still time to save the Sundarbans. She urges everyone to awaken from their greed and join the resistance. The production concludes with a collective vow from the audience and performers to protect this "unique Albatross of our earth" and stop the construction of power plants that threaten its existence.