A lively three-day journey of laughter and theatre, where comedy and powerful performances sparked joy, reflection and unforgettable connections, says SAKSHI PRIYA

“Laughter is the shortest distance between two people,” and nowhere was this more evident than at the Hasya Rang Utsav. Over three unforgettable days, the festival brought together the joy of stand-up comedy and the depth of theatre, reminding audiences of the transformative power of humour. From belly-aching laughter to moments of quiet reflection, this celebration of wit and performance art left an indelible mark on everyone who attended.

The festival began with a bang, as the ever-charming Sunil Pal took to the stage. Known for his effortless humour and relatable anecdotes, Pal had the audience in stitches with his clever observations on daily life. His performance was a shared experience, as the laughter rippled through the crowd, breaking barriers and setting the tone for the days ahead. The evening continued with Charandas Chor, Habib Tanvir’s iconic satire brought to life under the direction of Rajesh Tiwari. This story of a thief with an unusual moral compass combined folk music, rich storytelling, and a sharp critique of human hypocrisy, leaving the audience both entertained and contemplative.

Day two brought the unstoppable energy of Ehsaan Qureshi, whose rhythmic comedy and sharp wit had the crowd roaring with laughter. His ability to find humour in the smallest details made every punchline resonate deeply. The evening continued with Ghar Ka Na Ghat Ka, written by Jaywardhan Singh and directed by J.P. Singh. Tackling the societal obsession with male heirs, the play used humour to hold a mirror to deeply rooted traditions. Witty dialogues and relatable characters made the satire both hilarious and thought-provoking.

The festival’s grand finale was nothing short of spectacular. VIP, a comedian with an infectious stage presence, swept the audience off their feet with his quick humour and high-energy act. The night concluded with Bank Manager, a masterful adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s works, directed by Shyam Kumar. With its clever exploration of human absurdities and comic misunderstandings, the play was a fitting end to this laughter-filled journey.

The Hasya Rang Utsav captured the essence of how humour can connect, heal, and spark reflection, leaving its mark on both the audience’s hearts and minds. It was a celebration of life, its complexities, and the joy of shared moments of laughter.

Photos: Pankaj Kumar