Aranyak Natyadal will stage its acclaimed play "Raraang" this evening at 7 pm at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy's Experimental Theatre Hall to mark May Day. Written and directed by eminent playwright and thespian Mamunur Rashid, the play remains a powerful portrayal of social struggles, resonating strongly on this occasion.

As in previous years, Aranyak will commemorate May Day with two events—one at the Central Shaheed Minar in the morning, and another in the evening at Shilpakala Academy. The morning programme kicks off at 10 am at Shaheed Minar, where Aranyak members will perform the "Internationale" in chorus, setting the tone for the day.

The event will then feature discussions, musical performances, poetry recitations, and street plays. Two street dramas will be staged: Aranyak's own production "Matir Mohajon", written by Apu Mehdi and directed by Hashim Masud, and "Odriśhyo Haath" by the invited group Theatre, written by Khurshid Alam and directed by Robin Basak.

This year's May Day discussion will feature playwright and professor Ratan Siddiqui as the keynote speaker, alongside Harun Rashid, chief editor of Aranyak Natyadal. Staying true to tradition, Aranyak will also release the latest issue of their annual publication, "May Day's Paper".

Since its founding in 1972, Aranyak has played a pioneering role in post-independence theatre in Bangladesh. Their ethos, firmly rooted in the belief that "theatre is not just entertainment but a sharp weapon of class struggle," has guided their unwavering observance of May Day since 1981.

'Ora Kaaj Kore Nagore Bondore'

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Gano Sangeet Samannay Parishad is hosting a discussion and cultural programme titled "Ora Kaaj Kore Nagore Bondore" ("They Work Across Cities and Ports") today. Scheduled for 5 pm at the open-air Nandan Mancha of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the event will bring together activists and artists in celebration of workers' contributions.

Presided over by the organisation's president, artiste Kazi Mizanur Rahman, the discussion will include remarks from vice president and singer Fakir Siraj and general secretary Manzar Chowdhury. The event will feature solo and group musical performances and poetry recitations, capturing the spirit of May Day.

Udichi's programmes across the city

Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigoshthi has also planned a series of events across Dhaka to honour May Day. These activities are aimed at inspiring working-class communities to continue advocating for their rights.

At 3 pm today, Udichi's central committee will lead a Red Flag rally from Mirpur-10 Circle to Senpara Bishon Mor. A gathering and cultural programme will follow at 4 pm at the Senpara intersection. 

Additionally, Udichi will host performances of Gano Sangeet (mass songs) and processions in Gandaria, while artists will travel on trucks performing songs at various points across Badda, ensuring that the message of solidarity and resistance reaches all corners of the city.

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