The second day of the Bharat Ranga Mohastava commenced with the performance of “Agni Aur Barkha” at Ravindra Mandap, starting promptly at 6.50pm in the evening. Arriving 30 minutes early, I secured a favorable seat due to the comparatively thin presence of the audience compared to the inaugural day.
Derived from Girish Karnad’s renowned Kannada play “Agni Mattu Male,” translated into Hindi by Ram Gopal Bajaj, “Agni Aur Barkha” delves deep into the themes of power, love, lust, and sacrifice against the backdrop of the Kannada Mahabharata. Directed by the late Prof. K.S. Rajendran and performed by The Shri Ram Centre Repertory, New Delhi, the play captures the essence of Karnad’s masterful dialogues and storytelling.
Ram Gopal Bajaj’s Hindi translation paved the way for The National School of Drama Repertory Company to produce the play in 1996, under the direction of noted play director Prasanna.
The narrative revolves around Paravasu, a devoted priest, who performs a ritual for seven years to bring rain to a drought-stricken land, facing opposition from his jealous cousin Yavakri. Meanwhile, Paravasu’s brother, Arvasu, grapples with conflicting loyalties between his Brahmin upbringing and his love for a tribal girl, Nittilai.
Visakha, portraying Paravasu’s wife, emerges as a central character, representing women and raising relevant questions that bridge mythical and contemporary realms.
The play’s complexity is further enriched by the incorporation of traditional movements and gestures, blending stylized and realistic elements seamlessly. The inclusion of Chhau dance in the play within the play, titled ‘Indravijay,’ adds depth to the choreography.
The meticulous attention to detail is evident in the chanting of Sanskrit shlokas, meticulously selected from the Rigveda for authenticity. The actors, under the guidance of the director, learned the proper style of chanting from Sanskrit pundits, bringing sacred verses to life on stage.
Throughout the two-hour-twenty-minute performance, flawless choreography, impeccable costume design, well-executed lighting, and a fitting background music score contribute to its greatness. The actors’ energy and enthusiasm, combined with minimal prop usage and balanced space management, elevate the production to new heights.
Despite the distraction posed by some audience members, the play remains a profound exploration of human emotions and values, leaving a lasting impact on spectators and enthusiasts alike.
