In a unique theatrical performance that blends history with contemporary commentary, actor Pratik Gandhi recently posed a thought-provoking question: How would a young Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi react upon seeing a modern ₹2000 currency note? This query formed the heart of his acclaimed mono act, 'Mohan's Masala,' which he performed in a remarkable triple-language feat during Repertwahr on Thursday.
A Satirical Take on Soaring Prices
The play uses sharp satire to comment on the relentless rise of prices in today's economy. Through the character of 'Mohania'—a portrayal of the younger, simpler Gandhi—Pratik Gandhi illustrated the staggering value that ₹2000 would have held during the Mahatma's early years. The performance suggested that in that era, the sum could have purchased rations for an entire year, a three-storey building, a holiday in Paris, and still left savings. This stark contrast served as a powerful critique of current inflation and the diminishing purchasing power of currency.
The Journey from Porbandar to the Nation's Father
Beyond the economic commentary, Pratik Gandhi's performance delved into the formative years of one of history's most iconic figures. He traced Mohania's evolution from a shy boy in Porbandar to the leader who would be declared the Father of the Nation. A poignant moment in the act highlighted the physicality of money in Gandhi's time, with the character noting the absence of paper notes and the presence of heavy coins imprinted with a monarch's face. He then poignantly asked the audience to consider the intangible 'weight' of a modern ₹2000 note in comparison.
Audience and Critical Reception
The play resonated deeply with viewers, including Awadh Girls Degree College associate professor Upma Chaturvedi. She observed that 'Mohan's Masala' beautifully conveyed how Mahatma Gandhi's great ideals were rooted in his simple, everyday experiences and forgotten memories. These foundational moments, she noted, propelled his transformation from an ordinary boy into a global leader. Professor Chaturvedi added that the performance inspired the audience to learn from every life moment, particularly to stand against wrongdoing and champion simplicity.
Pratik Gandhi's theatrical marathon, performing the mono act in Hindi, English, and Gujarati all in one day, has already entered the record books. 'Mohan's Masala' stands out not just as a biographical piece but as a relevant social commentary that uses the lens of the past to examine the pressing economic realities of the present.
