Mythology on stage
P. SURYA RAO
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A thrilling time for lovers of mythological dramas.
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Role call.
A rare opportunity for the lovers of mythological dramas in Vijayawada was provided by Abhiruchi, a cultural organisation, at V. H. Grandhalayam Hall. Abhiruchi limits itself to dramas - both social and mythologi
cal.
The richly produced drama presented by Tirupathi Powranika Nataka Parishat, Ravana Kalyanam, was written and directed by Vemuri Nageswara Sarma. He also played the main role of Ravana convincingly.
Visravana Maharshi is worried by the cruel behaviour of his offspring Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Soorphanakha. Sage Narada appears and tells him that since they were born with Rakshasamsa they became Rakshasas, while Vibheeshana, another Maharshi’s son, was born with Daivamsa and became a good and peace loving person. Hearing this, Visravana requests Narada to convert the three Rakshasas into good persons. The three listen to Narada’s preachings and pray the Thrimurthis for their blessings. However, they misuse the boon bestowed upon them by the Gods and become arrogant. They start pestering and torturing the Devatas and Manavas.
Ravana, who goes to invade Lanka, finds a beautiful woman Mandodari there and they both fall in love with each other. Mayabramha, Mandodari’s father, condemns this love affair but Narada convinces him saying that Ravana is a great devotee of Lord Siva and also a man of valour. Then Mayabramha agrees to Ravana’s and Mandodari’s wedding.
The drama was a rare mythological treat for the drama lovers and the crowd fully enjoyed it. Vemuri Nageswara Sarma as Ravana and K. Mallikharjuna Rao as Mayabramha gave involved performances. Fine performances also came from Ch. Adinarayana (Vibheeshana), K. Ganesh Murthy (Narada), M. V. S. Syamala Rao (Visravana) and G. Indrani (Mandodari).
The drama is a Padya Natakam and the verses were rendered by the actors with apt musical sense. P. Krishnaji, president of Abhiruch,i and P. Panduranga Rao organised the programme efficiently.
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