Jan 23 2026 to Jan 23 2026 8:30 p.m.

Where

Freedom Park

Seshadri Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bengaluru 560009

Event Description

The Manganiyar Seduction by Roysten Abel: A Mesmerizing Blend of Music and Theater

Roysten Abel's "The Manganiyar Seduction" is a groundbreaking theatrical production that weaves together the rich musical traditions of Rajasthan's Manganiyar community with contemporary storytelling and stunning visuals. This innovative work is a testament to Abel's creative genius and his deep appreciation for India's diverse cultural heritage.

The show revolves around the Manganiyars, a community of hereditary musicians who have been entertaining royal courts and village gatherings for centuries. Through their soulful music, they evoke the mystical and poetic traditions of Rajasthan, transporting the audience to a world of love, longing, and spiritual devotion.

Roysten Abel's direction masterfully blends traditional Rajasthani music with modern theatrical elements, creating a truly immersive experience. The stage is transformed into a mystical realm, with the musicians' haunting melodies and the dancers' energetic movements conjuring up images of a bygone era.

The Manganiyar musicians, with their exceptional skill and passion, bring the audience to their feet with their performances. The show's highlight is the powerful and emotive singing, which captures the essence of Sufi poetry and the mysticism of the region.

Themes and Symbolism

"The Manganiyar Seduction" explores themes of love, longing, and spiritual devotion, delving into the complexities of human emotions and the power of music to transcend boundaries. The show is a celebration of the Manganiyar community's rich cultural heritage and their contribution to India's musical traditions.

Impact and Reception

"The Manganiyar Seduction" has been widely acclaimed for its innovative storytelling, stunning visuals, and outstanding performances. The show has been praised for its ability to transport audiences to a different world, one that is both familiar and exotic.

In conclusion, "The Manganiyar Seduction" is a testament to the power of music and theater to evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and celebrate cultural diversity. Roysten Abel's visionary direction and the Manganiyar musicians' exceptional talent make this production a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of India.

Roysten Abel is a noted Indian theatre director and playwright, known for devised theatre and plays involving folk performers, and productions like Othello a Play in Black and White, Flowers, The Manganiyar Seduction, and A Hundred Snake Charmers.

Among his most important productions is The Manganiyar Seduction, a show which featuredsover 40 Manganiyar musicians from Rajasthan.  The set design was inspired in part by the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, and also by the red light district of Amsterdam. The play opened in New Delhi in 2006, and thereafter travelled to the UK, US, Germany, Austria and Australia