Subrata Sambhu serves sarcasm hot on a platter, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

In the heart of Silchar, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit, a video (it is a video drama titled – Gorter Ekannoborti Poribar. It is almost like a monologue) has sparked both laughter and reflection among its residents. Playwright, theatre actor, and director Subrata Roy (Sambhu) has once again wielded his sharp wit to highlight a pressing civic issue: the deplorable state of the city’s roads.

In a video posted on social media platform Facebook, Sambhu dons the persona of Madan, a character known for his candid yet incisive commentary on local affairs. The duration of the video is 11 minutes and 41 seconds. With characteristic sarcasm, Madan calls out to all armchair activists, urging them to sit comfortably while the older generation takes to the streets to protest the city’s deteriorating road conditions. He is disgusted and frustrated. He no longer relies on political leaders to transform Silchar into a smart city. Ashish Das is the cinematographer, Somshikha Mazumder is the editor and Sudipto Chakraborty is the music composer of the video drama.

The video, which serves sarcasm hot on a platter, has quickly gone viral, resonating deeply with Silchar’s residents who grapple daily with pothole-ridden roads and inadequate infrastructure. Through his biting satire, Sambhu not only entertains but also provokes thought, forcing viewers to confront the stark reality of civic negligence. The video is actually an eye-opener for those who do not want to come out for bringing changes in the society.

Silchar, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Assam, has often been celebrated for its cultural vibrancy and close-knit community bonds. However, like many growing cities across India, it faces infrastructural challenges that impact residents’ daily lives. Sambhu’s comedic critique, though humorous on the surface, underscores a deeper frustration shared by many: the need for accountable governance and improved public services.

Beyond his role as a satirist, Subrata Sambhu is recognised for his contributions to the local theatre scene, where his plays often blend humor with social commentary, mirroring the complexities of contemporary society. His ability to capture the zeitgeist of Silchar through performances that resonate with both laughter and introspection has earned him a dedicated following.

As the video continues to circulate, garnering praise for its candid portrayal of civic issues, Subrata Sambhu remains a prominent voice advocating for change through artistic expression. His work serves as a reminder that amidst the challenges of urban development, humour can be a powerful tool for social critique and collective action.

In the bustling streets of Silchar, where culture and community converge, Subrata Sambhu’s satirical take on road conditions stands as a testament to the enduring role of art in reflecting and shaping public discourse. Through laughter and insight, he invites viewers to ponder not just the state of the roads, but the larger responsibilities of citizenship and governance in shaping the future of their beloved city.