Leftovers (Shillak)

Synopsis

A modest home in urban India, where the walls seem to close in as a family grapples with the crushing weight of financial instability and societal expectations

Baba, a middle-aged man struggling to maintain his dignity after losing his job, weaves an intricate web of lies to shield his family from their dire economic situation. As his wife Aai, son Ani, and daughter Mitra navigate their own challenges, Baba’s facade begins to crumble, revealing the depths of his desperation and mental fragility. The play unfolds through a series of tense family interactions, culminating in a harrowing breakdown where reality and delusion blur, forcing the family to confront the truth they’ve been avoiding.

Sagar Deshmukh’s Left-Overs is a poignant exploration of family dynamics under extreme stress, highlighting the corrosive effects of economic pressure on individual psyches and relationships. Through its intimate portrayal of a family in crisis, the play delves into themes of masculinity, shame, and the struggle to maintain one’s identity in the face of societal expectations. As Baba’s mental state deteriorates, the play raises questions about the nature of reality and the stories we tell ourselves to survive.