To commemorate International Mother Language Day, Channel i is scheduled to broadcast a special television drama titled “Chithiwala” on February 21. This thought-provoking play revolves around an unopened letter, delving into themes of memory, language, and the consequences of cultural detachment in a modernized urban setting in Bangladesh.
Written by Shafiqur Rahman Shantanu and helmed by Rashid Harun, the narrative unfolds within a contemporary middle-class household. Anik, the protagonist, resides with his wife Shaily and their son Anindya, who attends an English-medium school. Driven by ambition and the belief that advancement necessitates distancing from rural roots and native language, Anik’s convictions are challenged when Hashem Chacha, a visitor from the village, brings a significant letter intended for him.
Despite the letter remaining unopened due to daily distractions, Hashem Chacha’s presence triggers emotional upheaval within the family, exposing unresolved tensions that Anik has long overlooked. The revelation contained in the letter, penned by a language movement activist and a close associate of Anik’s deceased father, resonates deeply. It reflects on the fervor that inspired sacrifices for the Bangla language and independence, prompting contemplation on the current state of that ideal amidst the rapid pace of globalization.
The drama underscores the transformative power of a single letter in recalibrating a family’s ethical compass. Renowned actor Mamunur Rashid portrays Hashem Chacha with poise and gravitas, infusing the character with depth. Rashid, a stalwart of Bangladeshi theatre, recently returned to the country and commended the poignant narrative of “Chithiwala.”
In the lead roles, Ahsan Habib Nasim portrays Anik, the conflicted urban father, while Sushama Sarkar embodies Shaily. Nasim emphasizes that the play’s relevance extends beyond a mere commemorative occasion, urging audiences to reconsider the misconception equating foreign assimilation with modernity.
“Chithiwala” refrains from overt messaging, opting for a subtle approach that lets the letter serve as a catalyst for introspection. By portraying language as a legacy rather than mere sentimentality, the drama prompts a fundamental query: What is the true cost of progress, particularly when memory is the currency exchanged?
