File picture of a play staged during the Sambalpuri drama competition

Sambalpur, Dec. 17: The 17th All-Odisha Sambalpuri Drama Competition will begin here from next week.

Twenty-one Sambalpuri plays will be staged during the weeklong competition, which will begin on December 24 and conclude on December 31. The competition will be organised at Aranyak Mancha by Yuba Uddayan, a socio-cultural organisation. The organisers have received 29 scripts, of which 21 were shortlisted.

Secretary of the organising committee Siddharth Panda said: “The plays, which will be staged during the competition will carry messages of social awareness.”

Theatre enthusiasts will get an opportunity to view three Sambalpuri drama every evening during the competition, which will have an estimated budget of Rs 2.25 lakh.

Plays Prayaschit, Doorbin, Thir, Chaer Number Makad, Au Ketedin Mahapuru, Mahara Martya, Saragke Bara- Ada, Hanu Mankad Padhae Patha-1, 2, 3, Chaeti, Kahake Kahele Kan Heba, Bhanga Kache Chaka Janha, Dhhan Khed, Chuti Musha, Charan Das Chor, Pashu Maharaj Jindabad, Dadara Darpan, Aej Mui Kael Se Par Dina, Mor Bhae Tor Bhae, Shaal, Paree and Khaman Ranee will be staged at the festival.

The Yuba Uddayan has been organising Sambalpuri drama competition in the city since 1997. Around 398 plays have already been staged in a span of 16 years.

“The competition here provides us with the opportunity to view several Sambalpuri plays and performances of the eminent artistes of the state. Moreover, the competition is also providing a platform to several artistes of this region to showcase their talents,” said drama enthusiast Priyadiptee Pattnak.