In a powerful theatrical triumph, a Pune college's poignant exploration of family dynamics and LGBTQ+ identity clinched the top honor at a prestigious state-level competition. Sir Parashurambhau College's one-act play, 'Aatlya Gaathi', was declared the best production at the finale of the Purushottam Karandak, organized by Maharashtra Kalopasak. The event unfolded on Sunday evening at the Bharat Natya Mandir theatre.
A Story of Silent Struggles and Generational Divides
The winning play delves into a conflict familiar to many modern Indian households. It portrays what happens when parents who casually claim acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community are confronted with their own child coming out. The narrative centers on a young man, portrayed by actor Samarth Khaladkar, who is pressured into the expectation of a heterosexual marriage before relocating to the United States, all while secretly navigating a relationship with his male partner.
Speaking to the press, Khaladkar explained the core theme. "We wanted to tell a story common to many homes, but rarely shown," he said. "The protagonist's parents say they have nothing against queer people, but the reality is difficult to accept the moment it's their own son. It's not about outright rejection. It's about how the older generation forces their thinking onto the next."
The title, 'Aatlya Gaathi' (The Tightening Knot), metaphorically represents the protagonist's suffocating reality. Khaladkar elaborated that the constant family jokes, subtle comments, nudges, and the complete denial of his truth silently tighten this knot, reminding him that his life is not fully his own.
A Massive Collaborative Effort Behind the Scenes
The award-winning production was the result of six months of dedicated work and a massive collaborative effort. While only 16 students performed on stage as per competition rules, a total of 50 students contributed behind the scenes. Their roles encompassed set design, costume creation, prop management, and technical operations.
"The entire team, on stage and off, lived and breathed the story which was close to their hearts," Khaladkar shared. He emphasized that the play highlights the struggle of GenZ to find common ground with GenX. "We wanted the audience to feel the tension, to remember the stories of kids in their own families and to confront how love and acceptance are often tangled up in fear. It's a story that is uncomfortable, but necessary. That's what theatre should do."
A Kaleidoscope of Talent from Across Maharashtra
While 'Aatlya Gaathi' dominated the finale, the Purushottam Karandak served as a vibrant platform showcasing theatrical talent from across Maharashtra. The competition featured several other notable productions, including:
- Lageen by Vidyabharati College of Amravati
- Soyrik by Arts, Commerce and Science College of Nagthane
- Astitva by Shivaji University of Kolhapur
- Khodala Fandicha Aadhaar by Devagiri College drama department of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
- Kashtacha Khel by Vasantrao Naik Govt Institute of Arts and Social Sciences of Nagpur
The success of 'Aatlya Gaathi' underscores the vital role of youth theatre in addressing pressing social issues, sparking necessary conversations about acceptance, identity, and the complex fabric of family love in contemporary India.
