The play is a satire on the religion fanatics and the use of religion for political gains. A madman who seeks shelter at Ram’s temple is thrown out by the worshipers. Manhandled by the temple-goers, the tramp proclaims to take Bhagwaan Ram out of the temple. The police constable comes to this madman’s rescue and saves him from the angry crowd. The play is the conversation between this madman and the constable. The madman turns out to be a well-read knowledgeable person, yet lunatic at his ways. Is the madman really a madman, or is more logical that people around him? Does the proclamation comes true?
The best (and the funniest and the most creative) part is the mash-up of characters from Mahabharata and Ramayana who are in a pickle – unsure and confused with the mix-up. These scenes are particularly enjoyable with the thought-provoking symbolism and innuendos.
Writer-director Makarand Deshpande delivers an excellent performance in his portrayal of central character – the madman. Nagesh Bhonsle has good comic timing and portrays constable well.
I watched this in Prithvi and the stage setup is marvelous. There is light fog in the whole auditorium which creates a feeling of being in the temple. Live music and light effects complement the performances. Especially the music at the start takes you to the mood inside a temple.
What does not work for this play is the length and over-philosophical narration of the writer. The first 60 minutes – first half – is done very well and is complete play in itself. The idea and philosophy is clear, the characters are sweet and it also has a good ending in itself. Sadly, the play does not stop there! The second half stretches the ideas of first half to the extent where it becomes boring. There are saving graces in the second half like the scenes involving the Vanara-sena, but they are few and far between. Dialogues are long and different words and metaphors to deliver same message.
Overall it is an average play. It could have been an amazing play with some tight edits!
AglaPlay Verdict: Average play, lengthy and overbearing at times. AglaPlay Rating: 2.5/5 Language: Hindi Duration: 2 Hour+ Writer: Makarand Deshpande Director: Makarand Deshpande Cast: Makarand Deshpande (Madman), Nagesh Bhonsle (Constable), & Others
Below are few relevant links
Other Links Few Scenes from the play Origin of Ansh Group Makarand Deskhpande Wikipedia
