In yesterday’s newspaper, a thrilling announcement awaited theater enthusiasts as “Taj Mahal ki Tender” was scheduled to be staged at Rabindra Mandap. As someone eagerly anticipating this theatrical masterpiece for years, the excitement is palpable. Directed by Chittaranjan Tripathy, an Odia and NSD alumnus who currently serves as the director of the National School of Drama, the play promises to deliver a sharp satire on our bureaucratic system, drawing parallels to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s struggle to realize his dream project, the Taj Mahal, within his lifetime.
Penned in Hindi by Ajay Shukla, “Taj Mahal ki Tender” offers a witty commentary on contemporary bureaucratic challenges through dark humor. As part of Bharat Ranga Mahostava 2024, organized by the National School of Drama, New Delhi, the play stands out with Tripathy’s skilled direction and a diverse cast navigating the complexities of bureaucracy.
In the narrative, Gupta Ji, a shrewd and unscrupulous government engineer, manipulates Emperor Shah Jahan’s approval of the tender for building the Taj Mahal in honor of his beloved late wife, Mumtaz. Gupta Ji exploits the emperor’s trust by constantly extending deadlines and submitting false progress reports, effectively deceiving and robbing him of resources meant for the grand project.
While there was a change in casting this time, with the pivotal role of Samrat Shah Jahan being portrayed by another actor instead of the director himself, the cast delivered captivating performances, breathing life into their characters and driving the narrative forward.
I thoroughly enjoyed this production and commend the high energy level displayed by all the actors. The synchronized choreography and chorus were particularly impressive, contributing to a well-produced and enthralling performance overall.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the drawbacks encountered at Rabindra Mandap, such as the deficient sound system that compromised the clarity of many dialogues and the subpar cleanliness of the facilities. Additionally, some press photographers taking photographs while standing in front of the stage obstructed the view for others, affecting their ability to fully engage with the performance.
Nevertheless, “Taj Mahal ki Tender” remains a powerful testament to the transformative potential of theater, leaving audiences entertained, enlightened, and provoked to contemplate the complexities of our society.
