Nayagarh: (Report- Ramakrushna Rath): The 6th State-Level Drama Festival organised by the leading cultural group 'Natyadhara,' came to a successful close at the Pathani Samanta Auditorium. On the final evening, the theater group 'Chamatkar' performed a powerful play titled 'Daaani'. 
Powerful Play 'Daaani' Concludes Nayagarh’s 6th State-Level Drama Festival


A Story Against Superstition

The play focuses on the lives and traditions of tribal communities. It raises a strong voice against the blind faith and social evils still present in society. The story highlights the deep connection between tribal people and nature, as well as their inherent simplicity.
The plot follows the emotional journey of Bhagia and his wife Nuni. They become victims of a conspiracy involving a corrupt village head (Sarpanch), an immoral police officer, and a dishonest contractor. 
Powerful Play 'Daaani' Concludes Nayagarh’s 6th State-Level Drama Festival


Key Plot Points

  • The Struggle: Bhagia leaves home to work as a migrant laborer but tragically dies.
  • The Twist: A researcher named Dr. Choudhury arrives. To help the grieving family, he takes on Bhagia’s appearance.
  • The Conflict: Nuni faces harassment from the contractor. In a cruel turn of events, the community labels her a "witch" due to superstition and punishes her.
  • The Resolution: The play depicts the suffering of an innocent woman caught in the web of blind faith, ultimately showing the victory of truth.

Cast and Crew

The audience was captivated by the brilliant performances of the cast, including Rakesh Das, Laxmidhar Mahapatra, Umashankar Mishra, and many others. 
Powerful Play 'Daaani' Concludes Nayagarh’s 6th State-Level Drama Festival


  • Writer: Bijay Mohanty
  • Director: Dr. Bijay Kumar Choudhury
  • Music: Shakti Mishra
  • Lighting: Bikash Pradhan 
  • Stage Management: Prashant Swain (Pandia)

Dignitaries and Honors

The closing ceremony featured Dr. Arun Kumar Sahoo, MLA of Nayagarh, as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Zilla Parishad Chairman Er. Debasish Pattanaik, who praised 'Natyadhara' for its efforts in promoting local culture.
During the event, veteran singer Antaryami Nayak and Narayan Sahoo from Narayan Chitralaya were honored for their contributions to the arts. The festival was managed by Natyadhara President Pramod Pattanaik and Secretary Laxmidhar Mahapatra.