Tezpur: The biennial conference of the historic Baan Theatre, Tezpur, concluded on Sunday with the adoption of several important resolutions, including a strong call to safeguard the Assamese language, literature and culture, and a proposal to establish a national theatre institute in Tezpur. Held against the backdrop of Baan Theatre’s illustrious 125-year legacy, the conference began with the hoisting of the organisation’s flag and the rendition of its title song, “Rangar Mancha Baan Theatre, Rupa Sagarar Tirtha…”. President Bankim Sarma unfurled the flag under the guidance of executive member Pankaj Barua and paid tribute to the founders while highlighting the institution’s role in enriching Assam’s cultural heritage.
The main session, presided over by Bankim Sarma, was conducted by general secretary Jitumani Dev Choudhury, with secretary Dwijen Nath presenting the proceedings of the previous meeting. Former president Mahendra Nath Keot and vice-presidents Bhabananda Das and Dilip Bora occupied seats of honour.
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Among the key resolutions, the House unanimously resolved that Baan Theatre would remain vigilant against any threat or aggression towards Assamese language, literature and culture and respond firmly in defence of public interest. A proposal moved by senior member and former Education Minister Brindaban Goswami to establish a national theatre institute (Jatiya Naatsala) in Tezpur was discussed at length and adopted unanimously. The conference also resolved to publish a compilation of plays by Prafulla Bora and to constitute a committee to amend the organisation’s constitution. Earlier, the activity report and financial statement were presented, and lifetime membership certificates were conferred on six senior members. Around 250 members attended the meeting. A new executive committee was later formed with Bankim Sarma as president and Jitumani Dev Choudhury as general secretary.
