Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Nov 7
The globally acclaimed and pre-eminent Dogri play “Bawa Jitto” once again kept thousands of spectators spellbound for the second consecutive day at the main stage of Jhiri Mela 2025. This most outstanding presentation by Natrang Jammu, written by Late Prof. Ram Nath Shastri and innovatively devised, designed, and directed by Padma Shri Balwant Thakur, transported audiences into a six-hundred fifty year old saga of sacrifice, justice, and resilience. The spellbinding performance brought to life the story of Bawa Jitto, a legendary farmer who gave his life fighting against the tyranny and exploitation of landlords.
The most striking aspect of the production was its presentation at the very site where these historic events took place centuries ago, offering the audience a truly immersive experience that blurred the boundaries between history and theatre.
Speaking on the occasion, Natrang Director Balwant Thakur expressed that if such cultural events are institutionalized as permanent features of the Mela with additional logistics and technical support, the region could evolve into a global cultural destination. “Nowhere else in the world,” he said, “can one witness a live theatrical experience that transports audiences to a real historical moment from the 15th century.” He also extended heartfelt gratitude to the District Administration, particularly Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Mr. Rakesh Minhas, IAS, and Ms. Pallavi Mishra, IAS, SDM Marh, for their support in making the presentation possible.
Over the last 40 years, Natrang has staged more than three hundred performances of Bawa Jitto across India. Today, it stands as the longest-running theatre production in the country, earning the Dogri language and the Jammu region a proud cultural identity. In Jhiri Mela Natrang completed 21 years of regular presentations of the play Bawa Jitto.
The play portrays the timeless story of exploitation of landless farmers by oppressive landlords. Driven from his village over a land dispute, Bawa Jitto, accompanied by his nine-year-old daughter Gauri, finds refuge with a friend, Rullo, in Shamachak village. Through sheer hard work, Jitto transforms barren land into a fertile field. However, the greedy landlord reneges on his promise, demanding a larger share of the harvest.
