Habib Tanvir, born Habib Ahmed Khan on September 1, 1923, in Raipur, was a legendary playwright, director, poet, and actor.

Habib Tanvir, born Habib Ahmed Khan on September 1, 1923, in Raipur, was a legendary playwright, director, poet, and actor. He is renowned for bridging the gap between folk and urban theatre, notably with his work with tribal artists of Chhattisgarh at Naya Theatre. His iconic plays, like "Agra Bazar" (1954) and "Charandas Chor" (1975), reflect his innovative spirit.

After his early education in Raipur and Nagpur, and his master's studies at Aligarh Muslim University, Tanvir moved to Bombay, joining All India Radio as a producer. He became involved with the Indian People's Theatre Association (IPTA), working alongside notable figures like Prithviraj Kapoor and Ritwik Ghatak. His poetry, written under the pen name "Tanvir," gained recognition.

In 1954, Tanvir joined Qudsia Zaidi's Hindustani Theatre in New Delhi, producing "Agra Bazar," a play set in an open marketplace that blended local residents and folk artists with students. In 1955, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in England, later traveling through Europe to observe theatre practices.

Tanvir founded the Naya Theatre in 1959, incorporating the traditional Chhattisgarhi folk form 'nacha.' His celebrated work "Charandas Chor" (1975) won the Fringe Firsts Award at the Edinburgh International Drama Festival. He believed true 'theatre of the people' existed in villages and aimed to bring this essence to urban audiences.

Tanvir's plays, such as "Gaon Ka Naam Sasural, Mor Naam Damad" and "Kamdeo Ka Apna Basant Ritu Ka Sapna," often highlighted social issues. His repertoire includes "Deewar," "Pathan," "Ghaddar," "Aahuti," "Kalakar," "Paisa," and "Kisaan." He also directed English adaptations of international works, including Brecht’s "The Good Person of Schezuan" and Shakespeare’s "The Taming of the Shrew."

As an actor, Tanvir appeared in films like "Gandhi" (1982), "Prahaar" (1991), and "Mangal Pandey" (2005). His numerous accolades include the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1969), the Padma Shri (1983), the Kalidas Samman (1990), the Padma Bhushan (2002), and a nomination to the Rajya Sabha in 1972.

Tanvir passed away on June 8, 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian theatre. His life and work exemplify cultural synthesis and the power of storytelling that transcends boundaries, continuing to inspire theatre enthusiasts worldwide.

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