Akala Badhana

Auspicious Paradigm 2018

Auspicious Paradigm is a cultural program of Haldia Institute of Technology, where actors, painters, musicians, singers and dancers perform a thematic drama all at once. I was a part of the painter's team and we had to paint live on stage during the show. The drama happens at the Central ground of HIT every year during the month of December.

In 2018, the theme title was 'Akala Badhana', which means the pre-arrival of Goddess Durga on Earth and this marks the beginning of Durga Puja in Bengal. The drama however revolves around three sisters who through many obstacles from society, fight fearlessly for their own identity just like Goddess Durga.

Every year the team organizes an audition for the program. Wanting to be a part of the team I was asked to paint a scene depicting 'A day in a woman's life'. Here is my submission which got me into the team.

Sita's Agni Pariksha

I tried to depict Sita’s Agni Pariksha. I believe it must have been an important day in Sita’s life, and moreover, every other woman goes through different types of “Agni Pariksha” every day. She welcomes every challenge thrown at her with open arms. This illustration was inspired by the movie poster of 'Take One' directed by Mainak Bhaumik.

Now comes the show

At first, the painting team had to prepare two posters for the promotion of the show. Two of us took the job and did it beautifully.

Promotion Poster

Main Poster

The second poster was made by me & I wanted to portray the anger of Goddess Durga while keeping a glimpse of the drama. So I made silhouettes of the sisters and put them in the pupil. The 'Trishul' was made to depict strength.

First Draft

Second Draft

The painter's team had to paint four frames of 14*5 feet paper while the drama was going on. The time was short and we had to hurry. There were four scenes of the drama and each frame needs to be placed on the final board after each scene. Here are some glimpses of the painting team.