Panvel witnessed an engaging evening of experimental theatre as the research-based play ‘Guj Maniche’ was staged to an enthusiastic audience on Wednesday. The performance took place at the Adya Krantiveer Vasudev Balwant Phadke Auditorium, marking the inaugural staging of the production.
The programme was organised as part of the Amrut Mahotsav year celebrations of former Member of Parliament Loknete Ramsheth Thakur, adding a cultural dimension to the commemorative events.
Also read: Film on Ramsheth Thakur’s life journey presented to mark his 75th birthday year
Revisiting epic heroines through a contemporary lens
Produced by Nadakala Theatre and Films, the play explores the inner thoughts, emotions and perspectives of the iconic heroines from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
The original concept for the production was developed by Dr Medha Kirit, while the script and direction were handled by Sakshi Paranjpe. Priya Sawant served as the co-producer of the project.
Through a research-driven narrative, the play attempts to interpret the timeless characters of the two epics in a manner that resonates with contemporary audiences, presenting their emotional journeys and moral dilemmas with sensitivity and depth.
Strong curiosity ahead of the premiere
Given its research-oriented and experimental approach, the play had generated considerable curiosity among theatre enthusiasts even before the first performance.
During the staging, the expressive portrayal of the epic heroines and the unfolding of their inner conflicts held the audience’s attention throughout the performance, drawing appreciation from theatre lovers present at the venue.
Dignitaries at the Premiere
Several distinguished guests were present at the inaugural show, including former MP Kirit Somaiya, Dr Medha Kirit Somaiya, Priya Sawant, Sakshi Paranjpe, Abhishek Patwardhan, Shamnath Punde, Chinmay Samel, Vaibhav Buwa, Aditya Upadhye, Nikhil Gore, and Sunita Khare, among others.
The organisers also expressed special gratitude to MLA Prashant Thakur, BJP Maharashtra State Secretary, and former Leader of the House in the Panvel Municipal Corporation, Paresh Thakur, for their support in facilitating the successful staging of the event.
Cultural events continue as part of Amrut Mahotsav year
The staging of Guj Maniche formed part of the broader cultural programmes being organised during the Amrut Mahotsav year of Loknete Ramsheth Thakur, reflecting a continued effort to bring meaningful artistic and literary initiatives to audiences in the Panvel region.
