Synopsis:
Jhoda, based on Ganesh Rasik’s novel Akashgangako Otmuni, explores the struggle for land ownership and political manipulation of indigenous communities in eastern Nepal. The story follows Rupama, who uncovers how political parties exploited former soldiers to transfer land to the Jhoda, only to entangle them in a relentless political battle. The play highlights how native inhabitants were reduced to squatters, how political self-interest fractured their unity, and the enduring fight for their rightful land. Through a powerful narrative, Jhoda sheds light on the indigenous perspective and their resilience against systemic dispossession.
About the Director:
Based in Chulachuli, Ilam, Chetan Aangthupo has been deeply engaged in theatre since his early years, acting in Nepali plays from grade 9. Committed to developing theatre in his village, he began writing and directing plays in 2065, later founding Chulachuli Rangamanch. Trained at Mandala Theatre Nepal, he directed Mangena at NITFest 2065 and most recently Jhoda. Beyond black box theatre, he has successfully organized outdoor theatre festivals, integrating indigenous traditions and environmental themes. Known for highlighting underrepresented cultural narratives, Aangthupo is a prominent theatrical figure in Nepal’s eastern villages.
Director's Note:
some local governments as the first people of their region. However, due to limited resources, I shifted my focus to Jhoda—forested land granted by the government to emigrants. My search led me to Aakash Gangako Oatmuni by Ganesh Rasik, a novel that intertwined history, folklore, and Nepal’s land struggles.
My grandfather once told me how he lost his land due to legal complications, a story that mirrors the plight of Jhoda’s inhabitants. From 2026 to 2033 BS, they were displaced, labeled squatters despite holding land ownership documents. In 2028 BS, the army fired upon them in Morang, marking a dark chapter in Nepal’s land history.
With a dedicated team, Jhoda took shape despite financial constraints. Staged in Damak and Shilpee Theatre, it now reaches Nepal International Theatre Festival. This production is a tribute to Ganesh Rasik, Ek Theatre Nepal, my team, and all who have supported this journey in shedding light on Nepal’s land injustices.
About the Group:
Chulachuli Theatre, established in 2070 in Ilam, is a dynamic theatrical institution dedicated to social transformation through theatre. The group has produced numerous black box and street plays, addressing social, cultural, and research-based themes. With a distinct approach to theatre, it has built a strong identity locally and internationally. The group has been organizing the school theatre festival in natural sites promoting biodiversity and eco-friendly movements. Registered under Ilam’s District Administration Office, the institution continues to nurture artists and bring meaningful narratives to the stage, making a lasting impact on the theatrical landscape of Nepal.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Off Stage:
Contact Details:
Chulachuli Theatre, Ilam
Email: chulachulitheatre@gmail.com
Synopsis:
Jhoda, based on Ganesh Rasik’s novel Akashgangako Otmuni, explores the struggle for land ownership and political manipulation of indigenous communities in eastern Nepal. The story follows Rupama, who uncovers how political parties exploited former soldiers to transfer land to the Jhoda, only to entangle them in a relentless political battle. The play highlights how native inhabitants were reduced to squatters, how political self-interest fractured their unity, and the enduring fight for their rightful land. Through a powerful narrative, Jhoda sheds light on the indigenous perspective and their resilience against systemic dispossession.
About the Director:
Based in Chulachuli, Ilam, Chetan Aangthupo has been deeply engaged in theatre since his early years, acting in Nepali plays from grade 9. Committed to developing theatre in his village, he began writing and directing plays in 2065, later founding Chulachuli Rangamanch. Trained at Mandala Theatre Nepal, he directed Mangena at NITFest 2065 and most recently Jhoda. Beyond black box theatre, he has successfully organized outdoor theatre festivals, integrating indigenous traditions and environmental themes. Known for highlighting underrepresented cultural narratives, Aangthupo is a prominent theatrical figure in Nepal’s eastern villages.
Director's Note:
some local governments as the first people of their region. However, due to limited resources, I shifted my focus to Jhoda—forested land granted by the government to emigrants. My search led me to Aakash Gangako Oatmuni by Ganesh Rasik, a novel that intertwined history, folklore, and Nepal’s land struggles.
My grandfather once told me how he lost his land due to legal complications, a story that mirrors the plight of Jhoda’s inhabitants. From 2026 to 2033 BS, they were displaced, labeled squatters despite holding land ownership documents. In 2028 BS, the army fired upon them in Morang, marking a dark chapter in Nepal’s land history.
With a dedicated team, Jhoda took shape despite financial constraints. Staged in Damak and Shilpee Theatre, it now reaches Nepal International Theatre Festival. This production is a tribute to Ganesh Rasik, Ek Theatre Nepal, my team, and all who have supported this journey in shedding light on Nepal’s land injustices.
About the Group:
Chulachuli Theatre, established in 2070 in Ilam, is a dynamic theatrical institution dedicated to social transformation through theatre. The group has produced numerous black box and street plays, addressing social, cultural, and research-based themes. With a distinct approach to theatre, it has built a strong identity locally and internationally. The group has been organizing the school theatre festival in natural sites promoting biodiversity and eco-friendly movements. Registered under Ilam’s District Administration Office, the institution continues to nurture artists and bring meaningful narratives to the stage, making a lasting impact on the theatrical landscape of Nepal.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Off Stage:
Contact Details:
Chulachuli Theatre, Ilam
Email: chulachulitheatre@gmail.com
