BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 8th December 2025: Once a pulsating centre of rural entertainment, the centuries-old tradition of Jatra, folk theatre marked by powerful storytelling, music and dramatic expression is now fading into silence. However, within a modest mud house at Ramkumar Thakur Para, 63-year-old Jogendra Chandra Das continues an unwavering battle to preserve the near-extinct art form.
Jogendra’s journey with Jatra began in 1977, and over the last four decades he has performed in countless productions, including Biday Pelam, Gariber Artonad, Nihat Golam, Nach Mahal, Kalankini Bodhu, Raja Debi Das, Rokte Ranga Hathiar and Mathur Pala. Celebrated for his powerful stage presence and expressive dialogue delivery, he has long been regarded as one of the most dedicated Jatra performers in the region.
Among his most memorable roles was his portrayal of Nawab Jalaluddin in Nihat Golam, a performance that earned him widespread acclaim. He credits much of his artistic growth to his late mentor Kali Mohan Debnath and fondly recalls the golden days when Jatra troupes drew large crowds across villages.
Yet, the rapid pace of modernization has all but silenced Jatra performances in rural Tripura. Despite facing severe financial hardship, surviving on a modest government pension of Rs 2,000 per month, Jogendra has refused to let go of his passion. He has now appealed to the state government to enhance financial support for artists dedicated to preserving traditional art forms, warning that cultural heritage is at risk of disappearing without timely intervention.
“For me, Jatra is not just a form of entertainment. It is our identity, our roots. As long as I live, I will continue to protect it,” he said.
Jogendra’s unwavering commitment stands as a poignant reminder that the survival of folk traditions lies in collective responsibility. Without renewed support and recognition, the once-thriving echoes of Jatra theatre may soon be lost forever.
