The theatre buffs of the city were overwhelmed as they witnessed an enthralling folk style drama performance showcasing the dominating political scenario of the country in a satirical way. The famous folk play ‘Chhapri Palang’ was staged here on Wednesday at Antarang Hall, Bharat Bhavan under Rajasthan Mahotsav 2015. Written by a renowned Marathi writer Vasant Sabris it is the adaptation of famous marathi folk play Vichha Majhi Puri Kara, and later translated in Hindi by Usha Banerjee known as Saiyyan Bhaye Kotwal. Chhapri Palang is the Rajasthani adaptation of the play.
It was designed for urban viewers while keeping the rural punches intact. Further Chhapri Palang is directed by Shivdas Ghokde and conceptualized by Ravi Jhankal the play was performed by the artists of Akhyaan Sanstha, Jodhpur. The play follows the format of Maharashtrian Folk Tamasha. The story is of a king and his scheming prime minister.
Following the death of the administrative head - the kotwal, the Prime Minister promptly fills the coveted post with his inept and undeserving brother-in-law. As per the hierarchy, the present Havaldar ought to have been promoted to that post. The wronged Havaldar along with his sweetheart Mainavati plans to frame the new Kotwal.
Mainavati, who is a dancer, works her charms on the Kotwal and then beseeches him to fulfill her numerous wishes (hence the name, Vichha Majhi Puri Kara). She orders him to bring her the kingRss ring, chain and finally the kingRss four-poster bed (chhapri palang) - which he does. The play brings out the political undercurrents of nepotism.
Its slapstick comedy and wit has a lasting appeal on the audience. What happens when the ruler himself becomes ignorant and undeserving and how the Havaldar takes revenge from Kotwal was worth watching. This folk drama brings to fore the rampant political injustice through witty repartee and comical situations. It has the format of Folk form Tamasha with live music and laavni to add up to the flavour of this play. The audience enjoyed the show whole heartedly.