leheron Ke Rajhans’, a classic by Mohan Rakesh, staged by reputed theatre institution Satabdi Ra Kalakar, here at the Rabindra Mandap on Saturday was simply stunning.
This lesser known play, compared to “Aadhe Adhure” and “Aashadh Ka Ek Din”, is based on ancient Buddhist tale of love and inner struggle. The resultant effect of renunciation of the Budha forms the ultimate core of the story.
Dharitri Khanduala, an artist dominating in nature, displayed easiness portraying the character of Sundari, the protagonist, in utter dominance. Sundari, the wife of Nand, Buddha’s step brother, is dead against Budhha’s principle. Instead of giving up of the desire for lust, she organises a night for lust. Nand, torn between turbulence and conflict, is a character that was well executed by Alok.
Previously Darpa Narayan Sethy, one of the founder members of Satabdi Ra Kalakar, has already proved his mettle directing plays like “Banchha Ra Bagicha”, “Goitha Baba”, “Mahu Machhi” and “Hai Re Chandramani”. This time translating “leheron Ke Rajhans” into Odia “lahari Re Rajahansa” and directing it has added another feather in his cap. He has brought the uncharted facets of human relationships in a stunning manner.