A satire on the superstitious beliefs of the society was presented through a folk play ‘Pakhandi Baba’.
Here on Thursday, the play Pakhandi Baba was staged at Antarang Hall, Bharat Bhawan to mark the second day of Folk Theatre Festival. Directed by Yogendra Choubey, the play was performed in Chhatisgarhi Nacha style by Guddi Theatre Group, Raigarh.
The play is all about the superstitious blind belief of the society that give rise to fake religious representatives. While talking to The Pioneer, director of the play Yogendra Choubey said, “This play is somewhere a question to the society that on what basis they put their belief in some fake religious representatives. This is a time for them to think over it and make a strong belief in themselves rather over anybody’s fake promises.” This play is a satire and through comical situations narrates a different story that gives out a strong message, the director adds.
The story revolves around an unemployed boy Tetka. He is old enough to earn a living for himself but his lethargic attitude stops him from doing so. As a consequence his family members decide to bring his bride home. Tetka and his wife earlier had a childhood marriage; Teta is asked to get a Gauna. As Tetka was travelling to his wife’s village on the way he comes across various situations.
The time he reached his destination he found similar situations there too. Now he is already aware of the happenings and began saying all about it to the villagers. The superstitious believers think that he is a fortune teller and so he had a earning. He becomes one of the famous baba of the area and people form far places come to greet him. Without any questioning Tetka is leading a happy life and soon decides to enter politics.
A donkey in the play is a symbol in the play that symbolizes the society. He tells Tetka that this is not a right way to lead a life, but Tetka said that ‘You are a donkey and you have no right to guide me’, over which donkey replies ‘I am a donkey and will be forever but it is time for people to think whom they want to choose their leader as.”
A strong question is put up throughout the play. Through matured acting skills and a commendable direction made the audience enjoy the play.