Kheyali Natya Goshti, one of Dhaka's long-standing theatre troupes, marked its 50th anniversary with a two-day cultural and theatrical festival at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy's Studio Theatre Hall on October 24 and 25.

The celebration, part of the troupe's year-long golden jubilee programme, reflected Kheyali's enduring contribution to Bangladesh's theatre movement. Established on February 21, 1975 — in memory of Sirajuddin Khan and on the occasion of Language Martyrs' Day — the group has spent five decades combining theatre with social and cultural activism.

The festival opened on Thursday evening with "Kangaler Joto Kotha", a special presentation featuring songs, poems, and plays written by Kheyali's founder AKA Kabir. The second day featured the troupe's musical and dance drama "Manush Hobo", which explored themes of humanity, compassion, and social consciousness.

Several guest troupes also joined the celebration. Maitri Theatre staged "Bir Angona", Rongpeeth Nattyadal performed "Sadakalo", and Shoukhine Theatre presented selected scenes from "Arek Falgun", based on Zahir Raihan's acclaimed novel.

"This golden jubilee celebration is not just about looking back," said Shahin Ahmed of Kheyali. "It's a call for dignity, compassion, and the creation of a humane society through art."

Kheyali's legacy stretches far beyond the stage. From its early days in Jurain, the group has remained active in social movements, using theatre as a platform for dialogue, reflection, and change.