DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
jammu, Apr 1
A captivating portrayal of the life and legacy of Mirza Ghalib, the iconic Urdu poet of the Indian subcontinent, unfolded on the stage of Shri Ram Centre, New Delhi, by the dynamic team of Natraj Natya Kunj Jammu. Titled ‘Ghalib in Quarantine’, the play witnessed two consecutive shows in response to overwhelming public demand in Delhi.
Crafted by Rohit Verma and helmed by director Dr. Abhishek Bharti, the production offers a vibrant narrative of Mirza Asadullah Beig Khan Ghalib’s life. Set against the backdrop of the Covid crisis and sudden lockdown, the play intricately weaves the tale of a character grappling with confinement, drawing parallels to Ghalib’s own historical predicament during the events of 1857. Through poignant recitations of Ghalib’s poetry, letters, and life anecdotes, the play illuminates fascinating facets of his persona and deep-rooted connection to Delhi.
An homage to Ghalib’s poetic genius and a window into his era, the play unfolds his journey in a visually striking and immersive manner. Energetically portrayed by actor Balwinder Singh, the character of Mirza Ghalib comes to life on stage, while music, masterfully composed by Vishal Pandita, forms the soulful backdrop, seamlessly blending contemporary sensibilities with the essence of bygone eras.
The meticulous attention to detail extends to the play’s production design, with Virji Sumbli crafting evocative sets, Anu Thakur curating authentic costumes, and Aaditya Bharti orchestrating atmospheric lighting. Vocal performances by Vishal Pandita, Anjali Sharma, Shobhana Sharma, and Karan, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of tabla by Nitish Kumar and nout by Vineet Raina, further enrich the theatrical experience.
Capturing the essence of the performance through lens, Sheetal Raina’s photography preserves the magic of the play for posterity. Ultimately, under the visionary direction of Dr. Abhishek Bharti, ‘Ghalib in Quarantine’ emerges as a poignant tribute to the timeless legacy of Mirza Ghalib, captivating audiences with its artistic brilliance and profound storytelling.
