Munish Sood
Mandi
Can a character from the Mahabharata still challenge the conscience of modern India? The answer unfolded dramatically in Mandi as the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, presented its acclaimed production Panchali before a packed auditorium at the Himachal Cultural Research Institute and Rangmandal Campus, Satohal.
Directed by noted theatre personality Suresh Sharma, recipient of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for 2022, the play transformed an ancient epic narrative into a compelling commentary on contemporary issues of power, patriarchy, war, justice, and moral decline.
Based on the Sahitya Akademi Award-winning poem Panchali by eminent poet Nand Kishore Acharya, the production places Draupadi at the heart of the narrative—not merely as a mythological figure but as a symbol of female identity, dignity, resistance, and questioning consciousness. Her humiliation, anguish, anger, and resilience emerge as timeless reflections on the challenges faced by women across generations.
Rather than retelling the Mahabharata, the play uses Draupadi’s voice to confront present-day realities. Through poetic intensity and philosophical depth, Panchali raises profound questions about unchecked power, the devastation of war, patriarchal systems, and the erosion of moral values. The production resonates strongly in a society still grappling with issues of gender justice, equality, and human dignity.
The audience remained engrossed throughout the performance, responding warmly to the play’s emotional depth and artistic brilliance. Powerful acting, evocative dialogue, meticulous stagecraft, lighting, music, and direction combined to create an immersive theatrical experience that left a lasting impact.
The event was attended by former Vice-Chancellor of Sardar Patel University Professor Anupama Singh as chief guest and District Language Officer Revati Saini as special guest. Eminent novelist Ganga Ram Raji, literary figure Murari Sharma, newly elected Municipal Councillor Sarita Handa, and several prominent personalities associated with literature, theatre, and culture were also present.
The production also highlighted the significant contribution of Suresh Sharma to Himachal Pradesh’s theatre movement. Following the legacy of legendary theatre figure Manohar Singh, Sharma has emerged as one of the most influential theatre practitioners from the region, helping bring Himachal’s cultural voice to national prominence through his creative vision and commitment to meaningful theatre.
What distinguishes Panchali is its ability to bridge mythology and modernity. It does not offer easy answers; instead, it compels audiences to reflect on enduring questions of justice, morality, power, and human responsibility. In an era marked by social divisions, conflicts, and debates over women’s rights and democratic values, the play serves as a powerful reminder that the most pressing questions of the present often echo from the past.
The standing ovation that greeted the performers at the end of the evening reflected more than appreciation for a successful theatrical production. It was a recognition of theatre’s enduring ability to provoke thought, inspire dialogue, and challenge society to confront uncomfortable truths.
In giving Draupadi a contemporary voice, Panchali reaffirmed the transformative power of theatre and its relevance in shaping conversations around justice, equality, and humanity in modern India.
