When Silchar’s roads become a swimming pool: Subrata Roy returns as Madan, written by Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma //

At a time when public attention remains occupied with a long list of major events and discussions, local artist Subrata Roy, popularly known as Shambhu, has chosen to redirect the spotlight toward an issue that affects people every day: the deplorable condition of roads in Silchar.

Through his latest satirical video titled “Swimming Pool”, Roy revives his much-loved character Madan, using humour and sarcasm to raise a serious civic concern. The approximately three-minute and fifty-five-second video has been released on Facebook through both his personal profile and official page.

The timing of the video is significant. During May, public discourse was dominated by a variety of topics. From voting results and celebrations surrounding Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary to the observance of May 19 Bhasha Shahid Divas, the excitement of the IPL, and discussions around the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, people’s minds were occupied elsewhere. Amid these larger conversations, the worsening condition of Silchar’s roads appeared to have slipped from public focus.

It is precisely this gap that “Swimming Pool” seeks to address.

Using wit and exaggerated humour, Madan draws attention to the stretch between Bhowal Point and Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH), a road that has become notorious for its poor condition. The video humorously suggests that the numerous potholes filled with rainwater resemble swimming pools more than a public roadway. Behind the laughter, however, lies a pointed criticism of civic neglect and the inconvenience faced daily by commuters, patients, students, and residents.

What makes the video effective is its ability to communicate frustration without sounding preachy. Madan’s observations mirror the sentiments of ordinary citizens who navigate these damaged roads every day. The humour entertains, but the message is unmistakable: infrastructure problems cannot be ignored indefinitely.

Local satire has long served as a powerful tool for social commentary, and Subrata Roy once again demonstrates how creative expression can amplify public concerns. By blending comedy with civic awareness, “Swimming Pool” reminds viewers that while national and regional events may dominate headlines, the condition of local roads remains an issue that directly impacts everyday life.

The video has been written and performed by Subrata Roy, with cinematography by Bablu Rajbhar and technical support from Sudipta Chakraborty. The production team has also acknowledged the support of BTN.

In the end, the laughter generated by “Swimming Pool” carries an uncomfortable question: if a road begins to resemble a swimming pool, how long can the authorities continue to look the other way?