Shatranj Ke Mohre

Director by famed Ramesh Talwar in 70s, this is the longest running play of IPTA group. The title loosely translates to ‘Human Pawns’ in the context of the play. These human pawns, like their fellow Chess pawns; are expendables, and are stuck between the fight of two contrasting ideologies (kings). The central characters here are Kakaji and Acharya Ram Bhajan. The story unfolds between the contrasting ideologies of these two, identifying pawns of the system. This satirical play provokes the free decision-making ability of the characters itself.

The play is a treasure. A must-watch, it balances the bitter satire with precise comic timings and light notes. The seasoned cast of IPTA delivers yet another outstanding performance. The set and lightnings compliment the topnotch performances to create this classic. It is also a good opportunity for the audience to watch so many famed artists performing together on the stage!

AglaPlay Verdict: Must watch
AglaPlay Rating: 5/5
Language: Hindi
Duration: 2 hours 20 minutes (Approx)
Writer: P L Deshpande 
Director: Ramesh Talwar 
Cast:   Aanjjan Srivastav, 
Rakesh Bedi, 
Avtar Gill, Ramesh  Talwar, 
Rashmi Sharma, Bansi Thapar, 
Javed Khan 
& Others

Below are a few relevant links. The web link to the play performance by IIT Kanpur students is also provided for those who cannot see live performance.

Other Links
Image Gallery at IPTA Mumbai site
Ramesh Talwar Wikipedia
Aanjjan Srivastav Wikipedia
Avtar Gill Wikipedia
Rakesh Bedi Wikipedia

6 thoughts on “Shatranj Ke Mohre”

  1. Watched this play in late 90s or early 2000s. Nice to know the cast still performs. We liked this play a lot. And Rakesh Bedi Avtar Gill – reminded me of old days! We all were into watching plays and acting in college plays those days, but now, job and children and family. Thanks guys for putting this up. Indian theatre is great work and our children end up learning only Shakespeare and other western writers. I am not against it, but it is only the writing and the language of the land which can tell the story of the land. Will see if I am able to get to see Shatranj ke Mohre again! good job, aglaplay, best of luck

  2. Watched this play longgggg back and fell in love with Rakesh Bedi. Saw him last in Shriman Shrimati DD serial perhaps. Thanks for the review, its gr8 work – I dont rememebr seeing any othre play review site aorund. Keep it up1

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