About -

About Us

The theatre group ‘Samakalin Sanskriti’ was established in the year, 1988 and contributes extensively to the socio-cultural awareness and well-being of society. In the span of these 36 years, this group has been an integral part of Bengali Theatre and has been worked outside of Bengal. The group does not restrict its activities to the theatre and performative arts, but further extends its helping hands to people during cries; like natural hazards, especially the global pandemic caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. The members of the group have constantly engaged themselves in social work, community service, education as well as empowerment of several communities.

The firstfull-length play, ‘Jagakhicuri’ was performed in the year 1988 while the first one act play, ‘Kaktarua’ was staged in Kolkata in 1989. ‘Kaktarua’ won the Sisir Bhaduri Award in the year 1990 for ‘Best Direction’ and ‘Second Best Production’ from the Youth Guild of Gorky Sadan. To this date, the group has staged about 29 short-length and full-length plays both within and outside West bengal. Some of the noteworthy one-actplays that were applauded by the audinece are ‘Sandhya Prahar’, ‘Gana Yantra’, ‘Natir Upakhyan ‘, ‘Rabithakur Enterprise’, ‘Tyag’, ‘Haimanti’, ‘Abhimanyur Khonje’, ‘Picnic’ and ‘Konthorodh’ among several others. Some mention-worthy full-length plays include ‘Dhuliyaner Char’, ‘Asamprikta’, ‘Dware Antare’, ‘Janak’, ‘Manab Manabi Roopkatha’, ‘Divided by three’, ‘Badnam’, ‘Kusum Kainya’, ‘Bisbrikka’ and ‘Sangini’, to name a few.

Apart form regular productions, thsi theatre group also organizes and hosts a yearly theatre festival called ‘Mohonamukhi Natyotsav’ in the month of December. It is celebrated in the glorious memory of the eminent film and theatre personalities to pay homage to the contributions towards their art.

More than 85 theatre groups from India and abroad, have participated in this prestigious festival so far, enabling the group to embrace theatre traditions across the globe. The group has started an initiative to felicitate the backstage workers, who receive little or no recognition with the ‘Satyaki Roy Smarak Samman’ since the year 2021.

Under the ‘Theatre in Education (TIE)’ project. the group extends its helping hands to scholls and conducts numerous theatre workshops and programmes to inculcate an interest in theatre and its impact among the youth.

The group aims to be as culturally diverse and inclusive of all communities as possible. It invites people of varying skill sets. life experiences, and careers to collaborate on ideas and creative works. It focuses not just on successful theatre productions but also conducts extensive workshops among its members and outsiders with notable theatre workers to bring together a rich stratum of society that shares a genuine passion and love for theatre and its magnificance.

Members

Sudipta Sarkar – President

Co-founder and President of Samakalin Sanskriti, Sudipta Sarkar is the guiding force behind the group. With decades of experience as a playwright, actor, author, and director, he has supervised and directed nearly all of the group’s productions, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary theatre. Having staged more than 25 plays across Kolkata, West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, and Bihar, his artistic vision continues to inspire both audiences and performers. His direction of landmark productions such as Kaktarua, Janak, Tyag, Badnam, Rabithakur Enterprise, Kusum Kainya, Bisbrikka (2019), Sangini, Abhimanyur Khonje (2022), Kantharodh, Dhusar Prithibi, Subhadrara, and Platonic (2023) reflects his dedication to innovative and socially resonant theatre. A retired government employee, he now dedicates himself fully to the stage, serving as senior advisor and overseeing the group’s creative and organizational pursuits with unwavering commitment..

Suchandra Sarkar – Vice-President

As Vice-President of Samakalin Sanskriti, Suchandra Sarkar plays a vital role in shaping both the creative and administrative pillars of the group. She works closely with the President to ensure the smooth functioning of productions, festivals, and workshops. Beyond her executive involvement, she brings a performer’s sensibility to the stage, having once been an accomplished dancer. Currently serving as an assistant teacher in a reputed government school, she balances her professional life with an enduring passion for the arts. Whether managing backstage intricacies or lending her creative insight, she remains a key force in sustaining the group’s vibrant cultural journey.

Dipen Kanti Acharjee – Secretary

As Secretary of Samakalin Sanskriti, Dipen Kanti Acharjee is one of the group’s central pillars, ensuring that every detail—on stage and behind the scenes—runs seamlessly. From coordinating records, productions, festivals, workshops, and children’s acting school to guiding members and activities, he embodies the spirit of tireless dedication. An actor and theatre enthusiast himself, he enriches the group with both performance and organizational expertise, while also managing vital social and public relations. Beyond the stage, he is a successful businessman and social worker, bringing discipline, creativity, and vision into every role he undertakes. Serving as the Chief Creative Assistant, his leadership and passion continue to keep the group’s heartbeat strong.

Anindya Chakraborty – Assistant Secretary

Anindya Chakraborty, Assistant Secretary of Samakalin Sanskriti, is the creative backbone of the group’s production-oriented activities. From designing and planning to coordination, he ensures that every performance carries both artistic finesse and technical precision. A gifted musician, he oversees music production and composition, while also contributing as a singer, instrumentalist, and actor. His talents extend beyond the stage, as he mentors budding musicians through school-level workshops, nurturing the next generation of artists. A retired government employee, he now devotes himself to theatre, music, and social causes, making him an integral force in the group’s artistic journey.

Debashis Das – Treasurer

As Treasurer of Samakalin Sanskriti, Debashis Das brings both precision and warmth to his role, overseeing the group’s financial records, expenditures, and annual returns with care and transparency. He is instrumental in organizing school festivals, securing sponsorships, and managing the group’s theatre festivals, while also ensuring that every member’s needs are met. An accomplished actor himself, he has performed in numerous productions and continues to mentor younger performers with patience and guidance. Beyond the stage, he works actively as a social worker, collaborating with schools and social platforms to organize cultural and community events across the city. His commitment, both artistic and humanitarian, makes him an indispensable part of the group’s creative and social vision.

Jhuma Chakraborty – Member

An integral part of the executive body of Samakalin Sanskriti, Jhuma Chakraborty brings her immense artistic and organizational expertise to every production. A renowned figure in the world of dance and a student of the legendary Tanusree Shankar, she lends her brilliance to choreography, design, stagecraft, and costume, while also contributing to the group’s administrative decisions and social relations. A businesswoman with a deep understanding of the arts, she has worn many hats—teacher, mentor, designer, and creative innovator. Her presence enriches every performance, making her a true inspirational force within the group.

Kiran Shankar Roy – Executive Member

As an active member of the executive committee of Samakalin Sanskriti, Kiran Shankar Roy contributes tirelessly to the group’s creative projects. A retired central government employee, he has devoted his time and resources to the advancement of theatre, embodying both passion and discipline. An eager worker and committed performer, he enriches the stage as an actor and instrumentalist, while also extending his efforts as a social worker. His dedication and versatility make him an invaluable presence in the group’s ongoing journey.