On the fourth day of Rang Sopan 2 a Sanskrit drama ‘Urubhangam’ was staged at Antrang Hall, Bharat Bhavan.  Urubhangam is one of the hit plays written by Mahakavi Bhasa and has been adapted by many playwrights of the country.

The brilliancy shown by Kavalam Narayana Panicker in terms of direction and execution of the play mesmerized the audience at the hall. The play was wonderfully performed by Soapanam Theatre Group, Thiruvandarapuram. Notably, 'Urubhangam' is a rare specimen of tragedy in the Indian concept.I t is poignant with human emotions. An episode from Mahabtharatha depicting the death of Duryodhana is recreated for theatre.

 Here is a war hero who decidedly stood for adharma all through his life. But suddenly he realizes that his belief was wrong. The moment he faces the inevitable finale of his life and when he is turned out to be a lump of day he looks back. When the war continues to be fought in and around Duryodhana, he realizes its futility. But how can he spell it outIJ He himself has unleashed the devil forces. Now it is too late to withdraw his creation.

It starts from the reminiscences of the empire after the Bharat war and attempts to trace out how it all happened. Three Kaurava Soldiers describe the ruined battlefield between Duryodhana and Bhima. As the Soldiers see it, Bhima falls and Duryodhana refuses to strike him while he is down.  Krishna signals to Bhima to strike Duryodhana on the leg, contrary to the rules of engagement. 

Bhima does so.  Duryodhana falls.  Bhima and the other Pandavas run away. Balarama approaches Duryodhana, who lies broken on the stage.  Duryodhana refuses to blame Bhima for treachery.  Duryodhana cannot stand to receive his father and must refuse Durjaya’s move to sit in his lap. Duryodhana is determined to die proudly.  Duryodhana enjoins Durjaya to obey the Pandavas in his absence. 

Ashwatthama promises to destroy the Pandavas.  Duryodhana encourages him to lay down his arms.  Ashwatthama promises to make Durjaya king.  Duryodhana expresses satisfaction over this promise.  Duryodhana sees dead people and dies. The play ended on a serious note but, the lighting effects and the dialogue dilevery added more zest in the performance.