16th Edition of ‘Under The Sal Tree’ Theatre Festival in Rampur, Goalpara: A Unique Cultural Showcase for Assam, India’s Tourism Scene

Published on December 14, 2025

The 16th edition of the Under The Sal Tree theatre festival held on December 15, 2025, in Rampur, Goalpara, is set to draw attention not only from theatre aficionados but also from those interested in experiencing Assam’s rich cultural heritage. Hosted by Badungduppa Kalakendra, a renowned theatre institution founded in Rampur, this year’s edition is designed to offer a deeply immersive, one-day theatre experience amidst the beauty of nature. The festival, long hailed for its unorthodox approach to theatre and its artistic innovation, continues to resonate with both local and international audiences, blending the ancient traditions of Assam with modern theatrical expressions.

In an attempt to explore new frontiers and reflect on its 25 years of artistic endeavors, Badungduppa Kalakendra has chosen to hold this year’s event in a more intimate, one-day format. Despite the scaled-down nature of this year’s event, it promises to provide an immersive cultural experience that aligns with the burgeoning interest in rural tourism in India, where visitors are increasingly seeking destinations that offer a blend of natural beauty and local culture.

Badungduppa Kalakendra’s Theatre Legacy: Bridging the Past and the Present

Founded over two decades ago by the late Sukracharjya Rabha, Badungduppa Kalakendra has become a beacon for innovative theatre in India. Known for its physical theatre style, which relies heavily on expressive body language and minimal dialogue, the theatre group has continuously pushed the boundaries of traditional performance. The group’s past productions, including landmark works like Retelling Legends Through Theatre, Performing Identity, and Live Theatre, have earned them national and international recognition. They have successfully conveyed powerful messages using abstract yet deeply relatable forms of expression.

For the tourism industry, Badungduppa Kalakendra’s ongoing work has played a pivotal role in bringing international attention to Assam, a region traditionally known for its natural beauty and tea gardens but often overshadowed in the broader tourism landscape. By fostering a connection between rural Assam and international arts festivals, Badungduppa Kalakendra has contributed to enhancing Assam’s tourism appeal, particularly in the context of cultural and experiential travel.

Under The Sal Tree: A Theatre Experience Like No Other

What sets the Under The Sal Tree theatre festival apart from other cultural events is its emphasis on natural surroundings. Unlike most theatre festivals that take place in conventional settings with artificial lighting and modern equipment, Under The Sal Tree celebrates a minimalist approach, holding performances under the open sky, with no use of microphones or traditional stages. This makes it not just a theatre event, but also an immersive cultural tourism experience where visitors are encouraged to witness live performances in their most natural form.

The festival is also unique because it takes place in the midst of nature, in one of the more secluded areas of Assam. As a result, it has become a cultural and tourism draw for both local and international audiences. For travelers seeking an authentic experience, the festival offers a rare opportunity to witness the beauty of rural Assam through the lens of innovative theatre while being surrounded by nature. This combination of art and nature is increasingly gaining traction among travelers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The Significance of Rural Tourism in Assam’s Future Growth

India’s growing interest in rural tourism can be directly linked to festivals like Under The Sal Tree, which allow travelers to experience the lesser-known cultural gems of the country. Assam, in particular, is a state where nature, culture, and history converge, making it an ideal destination for experiential tourism. By focusing on events that are deeply rooted in local traditions and culture, the festival brings a slice of rural life to the forefront, highlighting its importance to Assam’s tourism industry.

In rural Assam, where traditional livelihoods and crafts still play a significant role in daily life, festivals like this one allow local communities to showcase their heritage. Moreover, they offer a chance for travelers to witness and participate in the state’s evolving cultural landscape. Through these interactions, rural tourism in Assam has the potential to generate not only economic benefits but also to promote cultural preservation and sustainable development.

By integrating the arts with the natural environment, Badungduppa Kalakendra has taken a bold step in promoting sustainable rural tourism, showcasing the potential of cultural festivals to serve as a catalyst for broader tourism development in remote areas.

Festival Highlights: A Snapshot of Assam’s Best Talent

Despite being a one-day event, the 16th Under The Sal Tree theatre festival promises an exciting lineup of performances that reflect the innovative spirit of Badungduppa Kalakendra. This year’s festival features three notable productions:

1. Ranjumuk: A Badungduppa Kalakendra production written by Madan Rabha and directed by Dhananjay Rabha. This performance, delivered in the Rabha language, focuses on the region’s rich heritage and culture, providing an authentic experience for both local audiences and those unfamiliar with Assamese traditions.
2. Edin Teu Ahibo: Performed by Mirdan from Nagaon, this Assamese adaptation of the classic absurdist play Waiting for Godot explores themes of human existence and absurdity. Directed by Anshuman Saikia, this production is expected to appeal to fans of modern theatre, offering a glimpse into how global theatre traditions can be localized to suit Assamese sensibilities.
3. Derh Inch Upar: Directed and performed by Anup Hazarika, this production explores themes of identity and existentialism, offering a unique take on contemporary issues. This performance adds to the growing repertoire of Assamese theatre that is gaining recognition on the national and international stage.

These performances are scheduled to take place in the natural surroundings of Rampur, showcasing the festival’s commitment to creating a theatre experience that is entirely unique in India’s cultural landscape.

The Future of Cultural Festivals in Rural Tourism

With Assam positioning itself as an emerging cultural destination, festivals like Under The Sal Tree will likely play an essential role in expanding the state’s tourism offerings. By drawing international visitors to a region rich in natural beauty and cultural depth, these festivals not only boost local economies but also help put Assam on the map as a growing hub for cultural tourism.

Looking ahead, Badungduppa Kalakendra plans to continue pushing the boundaries of theatre and cultural tourism in Assam. According to managing director Madan Rabha, this year’s festival, though modest in scale, serves as a stepping stone towards new concepts and experiments in the years to come. With a renewed commitment to offering more expansive and dynamic events, Assam’s cultural scene is poised to captivate tourists from around the world.

The impact of festivals like Under The Sal Tree extends far beyond the stage. They offer an opportunity for tourism professionals to explore how rural regions can create distinctive, authentic travel experiences that appeal to travelers looking for something more meaningful than traditional tourist attractions.

Conclusion: Under The Sal Tree Festival and Assam’s Role in India’s Tourism Future

The 16th Under The Sal Tree theatre festival serves as a testament to Assam’s rising role in cultural tourism. The combination of theatre, nature, and local traditions makes it an ideal example of how rural areas in India can tap into the growing demand for experiential travel. As more travelers seek unique, immersive experiences, the festival offers a model for how rural destinations can leverage their cultural assets to attract visitors and drive economic growth.

Through its commitment to innovative theatre and its dedication to preserving local culture, Badungduppa Kalakendra continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Assam’s tourism industry. For local communities and tourists alike, the festival has created a space where art, culture, and nature converge, offering an unparalleled experience that is set to inspire generations of visitors.