About
Ashokenagar Antaheen Kalaskhetra
We are a cultural establishment nestled in Ashokenagar, a quaint suburban town in West Bengal. Our inception dates back to August 18, 2018, although due to the disruptive impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, our official registration was postponed until March 17, 2021. Undeterred by these challenges, we”ve cultivated a thriving haven for artistic expression known as the “Antaheen Intimate Space & Art Gallery.” Within our confines, we”ve carefully nurtured an intimate theatre setting that echoes with creativity and an art gallery that serves as a visual feast for the senses. Complementing these spaces is our modest yet charming book stall christened the “Antaheen Boighar.”
Over the span of the last four years, we”ve taken the vibrant pulse of culture to heart, orchestrating a symphony of diverse cultural engagements. Through a dynamic mix of seminars, both in-person and virtual, engaging theatre workshops, and imaginative art and craft sessions, we”ve striven to illuminate the creative spirit within our community. One of our crowning achievements was the National Intimate Theatre Festival, spanning from March 13 to 14, 2021, and subsequently followed by the “SAHAJIYA PARBON,” a District Level Intimate Theatre Festival, held from June 17 to 19, 2022.
The tapestry of our endeavours is woven with the threads of theatre and painting, where fundamental artistic elements like lines, composition, and colour intermingle. Our mission is to channel the youthful verve and ingenuity of our local talents, imparting skills in painting, mask making, theatre set design, prop craftsmanship, recitation, and the art of acting. This creative incubation has borne fruit in the form of captivating plays staged across various venues in West Bengal.
Our commitment extends beyond performance, as we annually bestow the “REBA CHOWDHURY SMRITI SMMANNA” to honour esteemed personalities in theatre, art, and social work. As we look ahead, our aspirations broaden to encompass music, dance, and the art of mime. Our vision is to construct a cultural sanctuary where young minds burgeon and flourish, fostering social consciousness through our vibrant platform. Endorsement from luminaries in theatre and painting bears testament to the calibre of our work, bolstering our resolve.
In the near horizon, we yearn to become a nurturing abode for aspiring creative minds, nurturing their talents within the warm embrace of culture. With unwavering determination, we strive to compose a legacy that harmonizes artistic passion with societal enrichment.
Team
Antaheen Kalaskhetra
Guru/Director
Pritha Chowdhury
Pritha Chowdhury embarked on her theatrical journey during her early years with Bharatiya Gananatya Sangha (North 24 Parganas Unit). Later, she became associated with Ashokenagar Repertory (North 24 Parganas), Sangstab Theatre Group (Kolkata), and Kabbayan (Distinguished Recitation Group). Progressing further, she assumed the role of an Assistant Director for the play “Ha Ja Ba Ra La,” presented by Ashokenagar Avijatri (North 24 Parganas).
Currently, her focus is on adapting stories by renowned Bengali authors into theatrical productions. Her recent two plays are based on narratives by Humayun Ahamed (as a Playwright) and Shibram Chakraborty (as a Director). “Kalantak Lalphita” marks her directorial debut and serves as a platform to depict prevailing contemporary societal crises. Within this creation, she endeavours to establish a connection between surrealism and realism, crafting a bridge between these artistic styles.
Among her noteworthy contributions in this sphere are productions such as “Ekla Lage Bhari,” “Jokhon Akash Kade,” “Jotugriho,” “Raja o Rajodrohi,” “Ulka,” and “Maharaja Tomare Selam.” Her directed plays have graced numerous stages, featuring performances by diverse theatrical artists and practitioners. These performances have garnered recognition at events like PaschimBanga Natya Utsab, Ashokenagar Natya Utsab, Banipur Lok Utsab, Ashokenagar Sishu Utsab, and Ashokenagar Avijatri Theatre Festival. Her works have also found expression through various artists in Kolkata.
Pritha”s narratives are a mirror to a range of societal concerns including child labour, literacy advocacy, matrimonial challenges due to financial constraints, and even voter awareness. She has assumed a role in evaluating government-led theatrical initiatives like “Kala Utsav 2022” and similar programs, while actively participating in awareness campaigns facilitated by the District Information & Cultural Department (Government of West Bengal).
Mentor Visual Art
Debamitra Chowdhury
Debamitra Chowdhury, the head of Ashokenagar Antaheen Kalaskhetra, is a notable figure responsible for the establishment of the Antaheen Art Gallery. Graduating with a B.V.A. in Paintings from the Government College of Art & Craft in Kolkata in 1999, and later achieving an M.F.A. from Hyderabad Central University in 2001, Debamitra brings a wealth of artistic expertise to the organization. As a recognized artist, he leads the way in organizing regular workshops centered around painting, mask crafting, and various crafts.
Debamitra”s artistic prowess is demonstrated through his paintings, which have gained recognition in multiple art galleries and exhibitions across India. Under his skillful guidance, the workshops held at Ashokenagar Antaheen Kalaskhetra thrive, offering participants the opportunity to engage with diverse artistic mediums. This not only includes the world of painting but also extends to the intricate craftsmanship in theatre design.
Through his leadership, Debamitra cultivates an environment where creativity flourishes. His contributions extend beyond his personal artistic achievements, encompassing a dedication to nurturing and sharing artistic talents with others.
Actor / Playwright
Susanta Basu
Susanta Basu, an accomplished actor and playwright, has been an integral part of Ashokenagar Antaheen Kalaskhetra since its inception. Susanta”s involvement in the cultural institution has been substantial, drawing from his extensive background in collaborating with various theatre groups and engaging in diverse productions. He has enriched his skills through participations in workshops like “production based workshop with Nandikar”, “National School of Drama Workshop under Bapi Bose”, and “Acting Workshop under Sohag Sen”.
His theatrical journey has encompassed roles in renowned plays including “Dakghar”, “Valo Rakhosher Golpo”, “Malyban”, “Dorjiparar Morjinara”, “Bhoy”, “Choto Bakulpurer Yatri”, “Natir Puja”, and “Macbeth” with Swapnasandhani. Further, he”s been a part of “Niswhango Samrat” directed by Debesh Chattopadhyay, “Machar Manush” under Sucharita Barua Chattopadhyay, and “Birinchibaba” and “Dadar Kirti”, two productions by Naihati Bratyajon under Aritra Banerjee. He has also worked with Minerva Repertory Theatre as an actor in their productions.
Susanta has exhibited unwavering dedication to Antaheen Kalaskhetra, actively participating in and contributing to all of its plays such as “Amra Keu Basay Nei”, “Kalantak Lalphita”, “Raja O Rajodrohi”, “Jotugriho”, “Jakhan Akash Kade”, “Ekla Lage Bhari”, and “Ulka”. He has extended his involvement beyond the stage, engaging in various awareness programs facilitated by the District Information & Cultural Department (Government of West Bengal). Notably, he has also served as a Judge in the Government-conducted theatrical sphere during Kala Utsav 2022.
Some of Our
Memorable Moments
