The mobile theatre of Assam, also known as Bhramyaman Theatre, is a vibrant and distinctive form of theatre that originated in Pathsala town in the 1960s.

This theatre movement, if we may call it that, was pioneered and championed by the great luminary Achyut Lakhar.

Each year, theatre groups travel across Assam with their cast, crew, and equipment, performing in various villages, towns, and cities.

During the theatre season, Pathsala transforms into a festive hub where thousands gather to watch productions from famous theatre groups such as ‘Awahan Theatre,’ ‘Kohinoor Theatre,’ ‘Rajmukut Theatre,’ and ‘Rajlakhsmi Theatre,’ to name a few.

The plays often tackle social issues, family drama, mythology, folklore, and contemporary topics such as politics and corruption, which resonate deeply with audiences.

These theatre groups maintain their appeal with live performances, eschewing special effects such as green screens or 3D/5D technology. Classic plays like 'Titanic,' ‘Jurassic Park,’ ‘Mary Kom,’ ‘Mahabharat,’ and ‘Ramayana’ have drawn large crowds without relying on special effects.

The mobile theatre industry provides employment to over 5,000 people across more than 30 groups in Assam, each employing 100 to 150 individuals.

Despite concerns about the impact of OTT platforms and digitalization, theatre producers assert that the unique experience of live theatre cannot be replicated by digital media.

Tapan Lahkar, producer of Kohinoor Theatre and son of the late Ratan Lahkar, continues his father's legacy.

"Mobile theatre has been crucial in promoting Assamese culture, language, and identity. Kohinoor Theatre has been operating for 49 years, and I am proud to contribute. Our play 'Titanic' was a hit without special effects, and productions like 'Jurassic Park,' 'Mahabharat,' and 'Ramayan' also attracted audiences as much as their televised versions did," Lahkar said.

Dhruba Talukdar, producer of Rajlakshmi Theatre, notes, "Being from Pathsala, I’ve always been inspired by mobile theatre. I want our plays to address global warming, social issues, politics, and corruption. Even with the rise of OTT platforms, mobile theatre offers a unique experience that I believe can’t be replaced."

Prastuti Parashar, producer of Awahan Theatre, says, “Awahan Theatre is like family to me. We strive to address family and political issues while celebrating Assamese culture. We need the public's support to continue our work.”

Giridhor Choudhury, a senior citizen of Bajali, emphasizes, "Assam’s mobile theatre is a cherished tradition that has provided employment to many since 1963. With over 30 mobile theatres employing 100 to 150 people each, this industry supports 4,000 to 5,000 workers. However, the rise of OTT platforms might impact ticket sales, as younger generations may prefer digital subscriptions over theatre tickets."

No matter what changes come—from OTT to multiplexes—the thrill and charm of mobile theatre remain unmatched.

However, there have been complaints from several quarters that the extensive use of technology is diminishing the charm of the mobile theatre of Assam—an accusation with which I partially agree.

We should embrace technology, but not at the cost of the originality and simplicity that make mobile theatre unique to Assam.

All I can hope is that the mobile theatre of Assam continues to reach new heights in the years to come.

ALSO READ | Acting Pathsala Turns One