Drama of a Decade

The audiences will also be treated to Kerala-based director Chandradasan's acclaimed production Draupadi. The play, as its title suggests, revolves around the main female protagonist of the Mahabharata, the powerful and often-misunderstood Draupadi. In the production, the playwright tries to analyse the nature of modern women through this epic character. Draupadi, a woman married to five men, who is often considered to be one of the reasons for the great war between the Pandavas and Kauravas. The play is presented in an unusual style — with props such as paintings, masks and puppeteers taking the story forward.

The festival opens with Dhaliwal's Manch Rangmanch's new production, Kis Thag Ne Luteya Shehar, an experimental production that attempts to tackle the changing face of cities, where concrete is fast replacing human elements, and the youth are moving away to the greener pastures for power and money.

The last play is Kaun Hay Ye Gustakh, by Pakistani theatre person, Madeeha Gauhar's group, Ajoka Theatre. The play is based on the various trials that Manto faced and brings to the fore some unknown facets and writings of Manto. "We have spent time and energy to put together a festival that will appeal to different audiences," says Dhaliwal.

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