Posted on 15 June2025:
Theatre Workshop Season 8 by Santoshpur MANAN: A Celebration of Art, Expression and Legacy in Kolkata
In a heartfelt tribute to the power of performance, Santoshpur MANAN brought Season 8 of its acclaimed Theatre Workshop to life on 7th and 8th June 2025 at Tripti Mitra Natya Griha, Kolkata.
Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, this inspiring initiative unfolded as a vibrant tapestry of tradition and innovation. The workshops were led by two luminaries of the stage — Shri Debesh Roy Choudhury and Subhajit Dev, also known as Chakropani Dev — under the thoughtful direction of the young and dynamic creative force, Sagnik Koley. As one of Kolkata’s youngest theatre directors recognized under the Repertory Grant Scheme, Sagnik infused the sessions with fresh energy and vision.
Hailing from Barasat, Chakropani Dev is a gifted Indian singer known for songs like Raikamal, Dehotori and Nodi Bhora Dheu. His music blends emotion and poetry, touching listeners deeply.
Beyond music, he’s a junior research fellow and a theatre music director, with global experience across Europe, Israel and Vietnam. In recent years, he’s been leading music workshops across India, advocating for the role of sound in live art.
Since its founding on 29 December 2016, Santoshpur MANAN has remained a sanctuary for artists who seek both excellence and meaning in their craft.
Bhava and Rasa: Where Emotion Becomes Art
“In Indian classical aesthetics, Bhava and Rasa breathe life into every gesture and word. Bhava is the emotion within the artist — the silent language of feelings shown through movement, gaze, and expression. It is the heartbeat of performance, delicate yet powerful. Rasa is what the audience receives — the flavor of that emotion, felt deep within. Whether it is love, courage, peace, or sorrow, Rasa makes the viewer not just watch, but feel. together, they form a timeless bridge between artist and audience, rooted in the wisdom of the Natya Shastra,” remarked renowned Gaudiya Nritya exponent, Monikiran Dattagupta, featuring a captivating demonstration on Bhava and Rasa in the workshop.
With a blend of emerging voices and seasoned performers, the group continues to shape a space where theatre becomes a mirror to society — both uplifting and thought-provoking.
This season’s workshop was more than a learning ground; it was a celebration of artistic unity and the timeless rhythm of storytelling on stage.
Images: Monikiran Dattagupta
