SOCRATES is a thought-provoking Gujarati play written by Dipak Soliya, directed by Manoj Shah and produced by Ideas Unlimited, that brings the ancient Greek philosopher SOCRATES to the stage. Through his constant questioning of everyday beliefs, the government and the system around him. Rather than presenting him merely as a historical figure, the production explores why his ideas have relevance today and why questioning led to his unfortunate death.
The play opens with Hemant Kher as himself, establishing an important premise for the audience. He lets everyone know that the upcoming questions have brutally honest answers that might challenge what we already believe. From there, we dive straight into SOCRATES' world, whose habit of questioning everything slowly turns the government against him. His confrontation with the system eventually leads him to the courtroom, where he is sentenced to death by drinking poison. What makes the narrative engaging is the question it leaves behind, was SOCRATES' death a planned murder, a form of suicide, or a just punishment? Instead of giving a simple answer to this complex question, the production allows the audience to examine the circumstances and draw their own conclusions.
Dipak's writing shows deep research, blending great philosophical ideas with dramatic scenes while progressing the story forward. Manoj Shah's direction connects individual scenes effectively, allowing the story develop naturally while keeping Socrates’ philosophy at the center of it all.
Hemant Kher does a fantastic job as SOCRATES. He beautifully captures the philosopher's calmness and deep conviction, even when SOCRATES knows his questioning could lead to prison or death. His conversation with his wife also reveal another side of the character. When she asks him to earn from his wisdom, SOCRATES' explains that sharing knowledge is God's work gives us a real insight into his character.
The final sequence is the heart of the play, in which SOCRATES drinks the poison and walks among his disciples while reminding them to "Know Thyself". It carries huge emotional and philosophical weight. His famous quote, "I know that I know nothing" (Hu ej jaanu chhu ke hu kaij jaanto nathi), really shows how humble he was, even though he questioned everyone.
The technical aspects complement the play well. The lighting creates an effective prison atmosphere, while the use of ancient music draws the audience right into history. Special attention given to the costumes and makeup helped establish the period and characters convincingly. Also, the simple stage design works really well because it keeps our eyes on the actors and their ideas.
SOCRATES succeeds as a play that does not merely a history lesson about an ancient philosopher from Athens. Instead, it uses his old questions to make today's audience look closely at their own beliefs and assumptions. For those who loves plays that churns thoughts while telling a great story, this show offers a lot to enjoy and think at the same time.
Shashank Jadhav is a theatre practitioner, actor, writer, and director. He is the founder of Occipital Productions, under which he develops work across theatre and films.
