Lalit Gupta
JAMMU, Nov 29: Balraj Bakshi’s Urdu play Kanoon Shikan came out as a scathing condemnation of the present-day socio-political scenario with its measures of regulatory freedom in the name of nationalism, security issues, is increasingly infringing upon individual’s freedom and leaving masses to the mercy of various apparatuses of the state.
Directed by Dilshad Ahmad Shazi, and staged by Navdurga Kala Manch as the fifteenth performance of the ongoing Annual Theatre Festival, at the Abhinav Theatre, here today, today’s play where bitter socio-political truths were spoken in a comic manner came out as an absorbing experience for the audience.
Play’s director Dilshad Ahmad Shazi as Vakeel and Rishab Manhas as the protagonist Shayar-the duo gave notable performances. Shazi-who is well known for his consummate performances in comic roles-with his masterly control over speech, diction, clarity and dialog delivery left an unforgettable mark on the audience.
Other who also acted well included Diksha Sharma as judge, Ishu Sharma as the girl, Gohil Dalmotra as Maali, Sahil Pawar as Bus Conductor, Irfana Banoo as Chai Wala, Rohan Sharma as Policeman, Ashish Bhat as Bomb disposal expert and Ramesh Pandita as Chobdar.
The play’s design, with longish fade-outs to mark the flashbacks and placements of props that disrupted the momentum of narrative, could have been easily avoided by letting the court scene and actors undisturbed while moving the props of flashback scenes in the designated light spots in the front stage.
Music was designed by Visharad Dalmotra, makeup & lights by Shashi Bhushan, costumes by Ishu Sharma, set & props by Pranav and Vikas Dash. Irfana Banoo was the Assistant Director.
Tomorrow, Punjabi play Nachangi sari Raat, will be staged by J&K Bhoomi Welfare society.
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