The four-day 'Yogesh Smriti Natya Samaroh' (Yogesh Smriti Theatre Festival), organized by the 'Agraj Natya Dal' of Bilaspur, concluded grandly on Monday at the SIMS Auditorium with a powerful performance of the acclaimed play 'Piano', directed by and starring the renowned actor and theatre artist Raghubir Yadav.

The chief guest for the event was Biranchi Das, Director (Personnel) of SECL, while Dr. Ramanesh Murthy, Dean (SIMS), attended as the guest of honor.

Adapted and directed by Raghubir Yadav, 'Piano' is a tragicomedy rich in humor, mystery, and human emotion; it effectively portrays the loneliness, complexities of relationships, and lack of communication inherent in modern life. The audience highly appreciated the powerful performances delivered by Raghubir Yadav and Roshini Achreja.

Speaking on the occasion, chief guest Biranchi Das remarked that theatre is not merely a medium of entertainment but a potent platform for sensitizing society and connecting the younger generation with their culture.

During the festival, renowned theatre artist Raghubir Yadav was honored with the 'Yogesh Smriti Kala Samman-2026' in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian theatre. The award was presented to him by Biranchi Das, Director (Personnel), SECL. He was also felicitated by various social and cultural organizations on this occasion.

Upon receiving the honor, Raghubir Yadav expressed his deep emotional bond with Bilaspur and its audience, stating that an artist's greatest strength lies in the affection and sense of belonging received from the audience.

The event was attended by Manish Shrivastava, Deputy General Manager (Personnel) of SECL, along with theatre artists from Bilaspur, prominent citizens, litterateurs, and a large number of art enthusiasts.