GANGTOK,: Sikkim Akademi staged a play “Balidan” at Nar Bahadur Bhandari
Government College, Tadong on Sunday.
The play,
based on the life of Indian Gorkha freedom fighter and martyr Durga Malla, was
written and directed by Chunnilal Ghimirey. The play featured an ensemble of
accomplished actors from Sikkim and was graced by the presence of former MP Dil
Kumari Bhandari as the chief guest.
Durga
Malla (1913–1944), a distinguished freedom fighter from the Gurkha community,
played a pivotal role in India's independence movement. Born in Dehradun,
Uttarakhand, Malla’s contributions to the struggle were marked by his service
in the Indian National Army (INA) under the leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra
Bose.
Renowned
for mobilizing Gurkha soldiers and inspiring them to join the independence
movement, he was eventually captured by British forces during a mission.
Despite immense pressure to betray the INA, he displayed extraordinary courage,
refusing to divulge any information. His steadfast commitment led to his trial
and subsequent execution on August 25, 1944 in Delhi, making him one of the
first Gorkha martyrs in India’s fight for freedom.
In
recognition of his sacrifice, the Indian government unveiled a statue of Durga
Malla in the Parliament House Complex, New Delhi in 2004, cementing his place
in history as a symbol of valor, sacrifice, and patriotism.
Sikkim
Akademi president S.R. Subba underscored the importance of the play at a
pre-event press conference. “Balidan highlights the unwavering dedication and
sacrifice of martyr Durga Malla, connecting today’s youth with the legacy of
our forebears. It’s an opportunity for them to appreciate the struggles that
shaped our nation’s history,” he said.
Playwright
and director Chunnilal Ghimirey said, “This year is significant for Sikkim as
we celebrate the centenary of Nepali theatre and the golden jubilee of Statehood.
Staging Balidan is our tribute to these momentous milestones.”
The
hour-long production featured a cast of 25 talented performers who portrayed
the life and sacrifice of Durga Malla. Through powerful acting and compelling
storytelling, the play celebrated Sikkimese theatrical heritage while
emphasizing the bravery and patriotism of the Gorkha community.
In her
address, chief guest Dil Kumari Bhandari lauded the actors for their ability to
convey profound emotions and their deep love for the motherland. Commending the
director’s script, she remarked, “The narrative encapsulated the essence of
tragic events with purity and passion. Such authenticity could only be achieved
by actors driven by genuine patriotism.”
The
initiative also served as a platform to revive and promote theatre, often
referred to as the "Western Veda," while inspiring younger
generations to reflect on the sacrifices of India’s unsung heroes.
