RANGABHOOMI – The Play

Jagannath Seth is an Odisha-born Bollywood actor and theatre activist who has been actively working in the industry since 1998. A graduate of the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD), Jagannath spent seven years in the NSD repertory, where he portrayed a wide array of characters in around 80 play sunder renowned directors across India. His deep commitment to the craft of acting and storytelling has earned him a respected name in the theatre world. Now based in Mumbai, Jagannath is a busy creative artist who has successfully transitioned to film and television, featuring in 10 films and 24 commercial advertisements. His body of work showcases his versatility and range as a performer, while his passion for theatre continues to shine through his ongoing work as a director. With over two decades of experience, Jagannath brings a rich understanding of the stage and screen to every project he undertakes.

The Loo, Padampur, established in 1993, stands as a pioneering cultural organization committed to the preservation and evolution of art and theatre in Western Odisha. Named after the forgotten letter“&” of the Devnagri script, The Loo has become avital force in revitalizing Sambalpuri/Kosli language theatre, creating a unique blend of local and global narratives. Rooted in the folkloristic richness of the Budasambar region, the group crafts productions that are both deeply local and universally resonant(“GLOCAL”). Their plays, such as Kuili Kuili Kie Raja, Garabandha, Paaruti, and Asur, are powerful explorations of the marginalized voices, offering bold and nuanced social commentary.

The group’s repertoire is both diverse and profound, with dramatic adaptations of literary classics by Kalidas, Sarala Das, Tolstoy, Premchand, Manoj Das, and Hrushikesh Panda. These works are reimagined to reflect contemporary social dynamics, providing fresh, insightful perspectives. The Loo has been instrumental in not only preserving local culture but also expanding its reach to global audiences, embodying the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation.

Under the guidance of Jagannath Seth, a National School of Drama alumnus and celebrated actor director, the group’s young artists under gorigorous production oriented workshops. These annual sessions offer hands-on training, refining their craft while maintaining the integrity and emotional depth of the performances. Through its dedication to storytelling, cultural preservation, and innovation, The Loo, Padampur, has solidified its place as a trailblazer in Indian theatre, making profound contributions to both regional and national cultural landscapes.

This play is a profound exploration set in colonial India, centering on Soordas, a blind beggar who request for justice and recognition for his ancestrall and embodies a larger struggle against exploitation and resistance. Though physically blind, Soordas possesses a remarkable ability to perceive the true essence of people and nature, seeing a vibrant spectrum of emotions and nuances that others often miss. His deep empathy and expansive heart allow him to connect with the world on a profound level. The story reveals Soordas’s confrontation with powerful figures who represent conflicting forces—those driving progress and those clinging to traditional values. This conflict symbolizes the broader societal tensions between personal ambitions and collective expectations. The play explores themes of moral integrity, justice, and the complexities of human desires. It highlights how societal pressures and individual values intersect, offering a moving commentary on resilience, the nature of true vision, and the pursuit of dignity amid change.