Binodini Dasi, also known as Nati Binodini, was a pioneering figure in Bengali theatre during the late 19th century. Born in 1863 in Kolkata's red-light district, she began her stage career at the age of 12 and quickly rose to prominence for her exceptional acting skills. Throughout her brief yet impactful career, she portrayed over 80 roles, including male characters, showcasing her versatility and challenging societal norms of the time.
Despite her significant contributions, Binodini faced considerable discrimination due to her background. She was instrumental in establishing the original Star Theatre on Beadon Street in 1883, with financial backing from her admirer, Gurmukh Rai. However, societal prejudices prevented the theatre from being named after her, a slight that contributed to her early retirement from the stage in 1887. The original Star Theatre was demolished in 1931 during the expansion of Central Avenue. The current Star Theatre, now Binodini Theatre, was established in 1888 on Bidhan Sarani in the Hatibagan area.
The decision to rename the theatre has been met with widespread approval from the cultural community. Education Minister and playwright Bratya Basu remarked that the renaming corrects a historical wrong, acknowledging Binodini's enduring legacy in Bengali theatre. Actress Sudipta Chakraborty, who portrays Binodini in the play "Binodini Opera," expressed that the move is a triumph for campaigns advocating recognition of Binodini's contributions and a challenge to patriarchal perspectives that have long overlooked her significance.
Binodini's life and career have been subjects of extensive study and portrayal in various art forms, including literature and theatre. Her autobiographical writings provide a rare and insightful glimpse into the challenges faced by female performers in the 19th century, highlighting issues of gender and class discrimination. The renaming of the theatre serves not only as a tribute to her personal achievements but also as a broader acknowledgment of the vital role women have played in the cultural development of Bengal.