At a time when inequality and unemployment are in the limelight, it was befitting to see VASIYAT get a full house even though it is from fairly new productions– Bridges Theatre Group and Shiraz Productions.
VASIYAT is based on the life of a man who has a close friend, sons, daughters and daughters-in-law. Once he dies, he leaves behind a will. The will causes many disputes amongst the family members. One can see that with each of the family members having a different career and background, their interest in what lies in the will differs. This makes the plot rich with possibilities as is expected of a Bhagwati Charan Verma story. There are many plot points that are covered in the play. For example, the traditional quarrels amongst daughters-in-law. The differing economic strata of siblings and their priorities is another point that’s covered. An army man is incorporated making it even more contemporary. How older people live while their children are away from them, depending seamlessly on friends for their emotional needs and care. The misunderstanding amongst friends over what they really need in life.
The actors are given substantial opportunities to perform. One of the highlights of the play is the fact that each of the actors are given a distinct look, feel and costume and each of them leave an impression. Amongst the principal characters are Ketan Waghela, playing the part of Choonamani, the old man who dies leaving behind a will and Shiraz Penangwala playing Janardhan's role, the narrator and friend to Choonamani. Janardhan's character journey is given an interesting end that raises questions on how blood relatives are always given more even if they do nothing, while a true friend may get nothing. Diiva Dhanoya plays the elder daughter-in-law, who tries to establish herself as the chief contender for the modest wealth and property left behind. There is also the daughter Saudamini, played by Maria, who speaks English and provides a good sense of contrast. Even the actors with smaller parts perform aptly. With a lot of witty exchanges, actors get the opportunity to give their best and they rise to the occasion to do so.
There are some improvements that may happen in the further editions. Ahmar Zaman gets the subject, writing quality, cast, and art work right. It could perhaps leave a bigger impact if, for example, the grim realities are portrayed more directly in the script. This could lend the disputes more depth and add intensity to the conflict. As of now, it is better than average fare while it could incorporate some epic moments and make it even more popular.
(Tarun Agarwal is the founder of startup, BIG BAD IDEA)
