Under The Mangosteen Tree , a play based on the stories of Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, regarded as one of India’s most widely loved and admired writers on account of his superlative wit and originality will be showcased at the Jagriti Theatre from October 3 to 12. The play will be showcased Tuesday to Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. The stories are timeless and remain relevant in this time and age.
Rajeev Krishnan, the director says, “We have taken many stories from Basheer. Some of them are love stories; some are a treatise against war and violence, while some deal with unconventional love stories, with a hint of humour and sarcasm. His earthy mix of humour pathos, lived-experience and imagination, keen eye for detail and fantastic characters and situations make for an excellent subject matter for a play.
Though most of these stories were set in the 1940’s, contemporary audiences can easily relate to the characters and situations that make up the play.”
Malayalam film actress Aparna Gopinath is making a comeback to theatre with this play and is very excited. “I have always enjoyed theatre and have enjoyed working in this play. It has let me essay a wide range of characters. It was a challenge on stage and off stage to play such a range of characters. I am looking forward to presenting it to the audiences in Bangalore.”