Assam’s iconic mobile theatre institution, founded in 1976, may be facing an uncertain future as its director hints at a possible end to its journey
Guwahati: A cryptic social media post by Tapan Lahkar has sparked speculation over the future of Kohinoor Theatre, one of Assam’s best-known Bhramyamaan theatre groups, raising the possibility that an institution woven into the state’s cultural life for nearly five decades could be nearing its final curtain.
Reflecting on his association with the group over the past year, Lahkar wrote, “Bahut kothai ase… But No More Kohinoor Theatre.” The words have fuelled questions about whether the travelling theatre institution will continue its operations. However, Lahkar has not publicly clarified the reasons behind the post or confirmed whether a final decision to shut down the group has been taken.
Founded in 1976 by veteran theatre personality Ratan Lahkar, Kohinoor Theatre carved out a distinctive place in Assam’s mobile theatre movement. Based in Pathsala in the Bajali region, the group became known for its ambitious productions, elaborate stagecraft and efforts to bring stories familiar from cinema to live audiences.
After Ratan Lahkar’s death in 2017, his son Tapan took over the reins, carrying forward the theatre’s legacy. Productions inspired by international blockbusters, including Titanic and Jurassic Park, reflected the group’s willingness to experiment with scale and theatrical technology.
Kohinoor also took Assam’s mobile theatre tradition beyond the state, performing in New Delhi in 2010 at the invitation of the National School of Drama (NSD). For now, the future of the theatre remains uncertain, with audiences and theatre enthusiasts awaiting clarity on whether Lahkar’s words signal a definitive farewell or a turning point for the institution.
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