As ANK Theatre steps into its 49th year and moves towards its golden jubilee, the group proudly announces its latest production, Sita Banbas. Written in 1928 by the prolific playwright Agha Hashar Kashmiri, the play reimagines one of the most poignant episodes of the Ramayan - Sita's exile - through a lens that is as relevant today as it was almost a century ago.
Atul Tiwari, who directs the production, calls Sita Banbas "a treat to watch and an experience to shake, shock, stir and jolt us no end." He explains: "Today, where Lord Ram is in every heart and every agenda, we sometimes forget Sita, though her devotion, dignity and dedication embody the ultimate sacrifice. This play provides a 360-degree view of Ram and Sita's intricate relationship, while also reminding us of Sita's courage and wisdom. Staging it today, in the vibrant style inspired by the Parsi Theatre tradition, gives us both spectacle and depth - a theatrical experience that is grand, moving, and thought-provoking."
For producer and actor Preeta Mathur Thakur, the story is deeply personal and layered: "Ram has always been seen as the ideal son, brother and king. But where was Sita in all this? What was her journey? Through this play, we rediscover Sita as not just a queen denied her rightful place, but as a woman of extraordinary strength, patience and wisdom. She begins a journey of self-discovery and liberation, embodying the ultimate goal of our land - mukti."
Sita Banbas is brought to life with a large ensemble of over two dozen actors, singers and dancers, rich music, stylised dialogue, and the grandeur of painted curtains, magnificent sets and magical stagecraft. True to Kashmiri's dramatic writing - often compared to Shakespeare - the play culminates in one of the most powerful climaxes seen on the Indian stage.
*Mumbai Theatre Guide takes no responsibility for change in schedule.
