Bangladesh Performance Art Group is set to debut a new production titled “Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī” at the Experimental Theatre Hall of the National Theatre to commemorate the esteemed poet’s enduring legacy. The play, written by Apurba Kumar Kundu and directed by Sujan Mahmud, revolves around the final moments of Rumi’s life, starting with the Maghrib call to prayer and culminating under the brilliance of a full moon. It delves into Rumi’s contemplations on mortality, his burial wishes as requested by Konya’s ruler, Muinuddin Shah Parwana, and the elegies composed in his honor.
The narrative unfolds Rumi’s recollections, his relationship with his spiritual mentor Shams Tabrizi, his familial ties, the tumultuous era he lived in, and the unwavering devotion of his followers. Playwright Kundu expressed, “Rumi, akin to renowned Persian poets Rudaki, Ferdowsi, and Saadi, shines as a luminary in world literature. Through this production, I aim to present him within the context of history.”
Director Mahmud described the play as a contemporary exploration, blending elements of jatra, recitation, scroll painting, dance, shadow theatre, poetry, and music. He emphasized that the production seeks to offer the audience a transformative experience, delving into spiritual and philosophical realms beyond mere entertainment.
The premiere of “Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī” will take place at 6:30 pm on Tuesday. Following the performance, a dialogue commemorating Rumi’s birth anniversary will be conducted, featuring discussions with Dhaka University’s Persian literature professor Mumeet Al Rashid and Syed Reza MirMohammadi, the Cultural Counsellor of the Iranian Embassy, among other distinguished guests.