Play Details
Context
Artistic Director
Dominic Cooke
Translated by
Akash Mohimen
Original Language
Hindi
Part of
New Plays From India
Dates Performed
Wednesday 14th November 2012
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs
Form
Play Details
Synopsis
A forest in central India, caught between tradition and change
Mahua stands on the edge of the dense forest, the air thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of village life. This forest, both a sanctuary and a battleground, is where the spirits of the past and the hopes of the future intertwine in the lives of those who dwell on its periphery. Mahua, a young tribal woman, embodies the vibrant yet tumultuous spirit of her community. Her journey through love, betrayal, and rebellion against the encroaching modernity and corruption is a poignant reflection of the timeless struggle between tradition and progress.
In the heart of this evocative tale, Mahua grapples with the pressures of an arranged marriage and the allure of forbidden love. Her passion for Raja, a man from outside her tribe, ignites a fierce conflict with her family and community, culminating in a dramatic stand against the societal norms that seek to bind her. Mahua’s strength and defiance shine through as she navigates the treacherous waters of loyalty and desire, with the forest as her ever-present confidant and witness.