Synopsis

Naach is a form of traditional folk theatre from Bihar, India. In this tradition, male artists often cross-dress as women on stage. The most legendary figure in this tradition is Bhikhari Thakur (1887–1971), an actor, playwright, and social reformer. This film follows the last four Naach performers who had the honor of working with him. As they share their plays, songs, and a lifetime of memories, we are drawn into the world of folk theatre, catching glimpses of Bhikhari Thakur—reverently called budhau, the old man—through their stories.

Directors

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  • Shipli Gulati
  • Shipli Gulati is a filmmaker and a doctoral researcher at Jawaharlal Nehru University. Her work primarily focuses on gender, performance cultures, and oral traditions in India. Her recent documentary Qissa-e-Parsi (2014) won the National Film Award for Best Ethnographic Film.

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  • Jainendra Dost
  • Jainendra Dost is a PhD candidate in Art and Aesthetics at Jawaharlal Nehru University. His research is closely tied to his 18 years of experience in the theatre world. He currently serves as the director of the Bhikhari Thakur Repertory Training and Research Centre.