Dec 15 2024 to Dec 15 2024 3:30 p.m.

EVENT HAS ENDED

Price: Rs 500 Book/Buy

Where

Ranga Shankara

36/2, 8th Cross Rd, R K Colony, 2nd Phase, J. P. Nagar 560078

Event Description

‘Ajaatshatru’: A Hindi Adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s ‘An Enemy of the People’
Presented by: SURNAI Theatre and Folk Arts Foundation
Playwright: Ila Arun
Directed by: K.K. Raina and Ila Arun

The Hindi adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s seminal work An Enemy of the People, titled Ajaatshatru, focuses on the urgent issue of environmental disaster and the societal challenges that arise from the intersection of truth, greed, and responsibility. Written by Ila Arun, the play delves into the conflict between social responsibility and political and business self-interest.

Plot Overview
Set in the fictitious town of Sonpur, renowned for its sacred healing Kunds, Ajaatshatru unfolds as a "play within a play." Beginning with a folk performance that reveres the five sacred elements of nature—Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Space—the story transitions into a gripping tale of two brothers:

Ajaatshatru, an idealistic doctor determined to expose the contamination of the town’s water and protect its people.
Abhimanyu Singh, a pragmatic businessman-politician who prioritizes economic interests over public health.
The central conflict reveals how personal and political interests can stifle the truth, forcing individuals to confront questions of morality, loyalty, and societal values.

Director’s Note
“Ajaatshatru not only highlights the devastating consequences of water contamination but also underscores the importance of protecting our environment for future generations. The play reflects the timeless struggle of idealists against an oppressive majority, urging audiences to introspect their roles in safeguarding nature.”

About SURNAI Theatre and Folk Arts Foundation
Founded in 1982 by Ila Arun, SURNAI has consistently championed meaningful and socially relevant theatre. Specializing in themes that resonate with contemporary Indian society, particularly women’s issues, the group has staged over 350 productions across multiple languages. Since 2015, SURNAI has functioned as a charitable trust under the name SURNAI Theatre and Folk Arts Foundation.

Ila Arun
A multifaceted artist known globally for her contributions to theatre, music, and cinema, Ila Arun is also an accomplished playwright. With over 50 years of experience, she has written five original plays in Hindi and adapted 12 works from world-renowned playwrights. She initiated the annual Ibsen Festival in Mumbai in 2014, bringing the Norwegian playwright’s works to Indian audiences in collaboration with the Royal Norwegian Consulate General.

Why Watch ‘Ajaatshatru’?
A powerful commentary on environmental issues intertwined with human relationships.
A rare opportunity to witness a compelling adaptation of a globally celebrated play.
Directed by veterans K.K. Raina and Ila Arun, ensuring a masterful production.

Experience the clash of ideals, the pursuit of truth, and the timeless relevance of Henrik Ibsen’s vision in this unforgettable theatrical performance.