Himachal: Highlights the oppressive social norms faced by women
Himachal Pradesh: To bid goodbye to the year and usher in the new year, Himachal Sanskritik Shodh Sansthan and Rangmandal staged the acclaimed Marathi play Khamosh Adalat Jari Hai (The Silent Court Continues). Directed by Suresh Sharma, the play, originally written by legendary playwright Vijay Tendulkar, enthralled the audience with its powerful narrative and soulful acting. The story revolves around the protagonist Leela Banare, whose struggle highlights the oppressive moral and social norms faced by women. The play delves deeply into the themes of male sexual repression and social hypocrisy, sharply criticising the injustices meted out to women under the guise of morality and tradition. One of the highlights of the play is its unconventional form, especially in the court scene, which highlights the absurdities of human fate. Through a fictional mock trial, the narrative explores profound social issues using satire and drama. In this mock court, witnesses come forward to accuse a single woman, even the judge is involved as a witness against her, while those who could defend her are absent. Despite her efforts to present her side, the court – the symbol of society – remains silent, and eventually declares her guilty. The play had a great cast, including Shrishti as Leela Banare, Vikrant as Sukhatme, Karan as Karishkar, Nibha as Mrs. Karishkar, Akash as Karnik, Javed as Ponkshe, Sachin as Rokde and Prahlad as Samant. The lighting design, which played a vital role in making the play even better, was done by Vyom, while the soulful music was composed by Kashmir Singh. The play was collaborated by Suman, Puja, Archana and Balwant Singh, while the presentation was managed by Seema Sharma. A milestone in Indian theatre, this entertaining and thought-provoking play forced the audience to reflect on its themes, making it a memorable cultural event to close out 2024 and welcome the New Year.
