‘Jati Hi Pooccho Sadhu Ki’ concludes Haryana Kala Parishad’s theatre fest

Lalit Gupta

JAMMU, June 27:  A compelling performance of Hindi drama ‘Jati Hi Pooccho Sadhu Ki’, based on original play by Vijay Tendulkar by Action Theatre Society, Rohtak, marked the conclusion of three-day theatre festival being organized by Haryana Kala Parishad, Chandigarh in collaboration with J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, at Abhinav Theatre, here today.
The play ‘Jati Hi Pooccho Sadhu Ki ‘which clearly contradicts what Bhagat Kabir once said ‘Jaati Na Pooccho Sadhu ki’, deals with the social conditions of 1980 that are still relevant even today. We are still seeped in the quagmire of illiteracy, casteism, unemployment and the play presents a satirical view of our democracy.
The plot of play revolves around the protagonist – Mahipat Babruvahan hailing from a village, Mahipat belongs to a lower caste. Hard work and perseverance enables him to acquire education and land a job as a professor. However, his caste becomes a stumbling block in his success. He reacts using various means to protect his position resulting in hilarious situations which ultimately land him back to square one.
Today’s production directed and designed by National School of Drama pass-out Dushyant Kumar, came out to be a very well designed play with lead actor Krishan Kumar in the role of Mahipat giving an impressive performance. He set the tone of the play with his opening long narrative.
The fast pace of the unfolding events was achieved through synchronized movements and groupings of actors in multiple roles. The light design by Dushyant was noticeable for its poetic effects, while background music by Pradeep with inclusion of modern day numbers not only successfully elevated the emotive content of the scenes but also added a touch of humor. The members of the cast included Sangeeta, Deepa, Manisha, Gyanesh, Mamata, Yash, Kanika, Kapil, Shubam and Surendra.
The festival which made possible for Haryana theatre artistes to perform in Jammu and interact with local groups was very much appreciated by the theatre fraternity of the winter capital.