Lucknow Theatre Production 'Purja Purja Kat Mare' Staged with Emotional Intensity
The UP Sangeet Natak Akademi (UPSNA) in Lucknow witnessed a gripping theatrical performance on Friday evening as the Manjushree Natya Manch presented the play 'Purja Purja Kat Mare'. This emotionally charged production delved into themes of love, sacrifice, and duty, captivating the audience with its poignant narrative and powerful performances.
Plot Centered on Extreme Sacrifice for National Duty
The play opens with King Rana, who on his very first night of marriage receives an urgent call to defend his country on the battlefield. Leaving his new bride behind, he departs immediately to fulfill his royal duty. During a critical moment in the conflict, consumed by thoughts of his wife, King Rana sends a message requesting a 'symbol of love' from her to bolster his spirits.
Interpreting this request as a dangerous distraction that could compromise her husband's focus and the nation's security, the queen makes a shocking decision. Believing her husband needs ultimate inspiration to fight with full strength, she instructs her maid to behead her and send her head to the battlefield as the requested symbol. This extreme act of sacrifice forms the dramatic climax of the production.
Artistic Direction and Literary Inspiration
The play was skillfully directed by renowned theatre artist Shailesh Srivastava, who brought depth and intensity to this challenging narrative. The story itself draws inspiration from poetic works by two celebrated Indian poets:
- Jai Shankar Prasad: A prominent figure in modern Hindi literature known for his romantic and nationalist poetry.
- Gopal Das Neeraj: An acclaimed poet celebrated for his lyrical compositions and emotional depth.
This literary foundation provided rich material for the theatrical adaptation, allowing the production to explore complex emotional landscapes while maintaining cultural authenticity.
Manjushree Samman 2026 Honors Women Achievers
Following the powerful performance, the evening transitioned to a celebration of contemporary female excellence with the presentation of the Manjushree Samman 2026. This prestigious award recognized women from diverse professional backgrounds who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
The distinguished honorees included:
- Parveen Azad: Officer on Special Duty in the Police department
- Ritu Suhas: Accomplished IAS officer serving in administrative capacities
- Vibha Prasad: Vice-President of UP Sangeet Natak Akademi
- Amita Dubey: Chief Editor of UP Hindi Sansthan
- Jyoti Kiran Ratan: Dedicated social activist working for community welfare
The felicitation ceremony provided a meaningful contrast to the historical narrative of the play, highlighting modern women's achievements while the performance explored traditional themes of feminine sacrifice.
Cultural Significance and Audience Impact
The production successfully blended traditional storytelling with contemporary theatrical techniques, creating an immersive experience that resonated deeply with attendees. The UPSNA venue provided an appropriate cultural setting for this exploration of historical themes through performing arts.
The evening represented a significant cultural event in Lucknow's artistic calendar, demonstrating the continued vitality of theatre as a medium for exploring complex human emotions and societal values. The combination of powerful drama and recognition of contemporary achievement created a multifaceted cultural experience that celebrated both artistic expression and real-world accomplishment.
