 EARLY TIMES REPORT
Jammu, Dec 10: Natrang, in its weekly Sunday Theatre series, presented the thought-provoking Hindi play 'Ajgar Raaj,' written by Chiranjeet and directed by Neeraj Kant, at Natrang Studio Theatre today. The play delves into the imperialist, expansionist, and opportunistic policies of a neighboring country, exposing its attempts to drive mankind toward destructive weapons, wars, and widespread destruction.
The narrative unfolds in the court of Ajgar Raaj as he celebrates his 74th birthday. During the festivities, he reveals that a boon from his master Shaitaan grants him immortality after completing 73 years of life.
He declares himself God and his commander as the crown prince in the absence of the Prime Minister.
Ajgar Raaj proclaims his immortality to the world, designating his "Lal Kitab" as the divine book of God. A commentary on the "Lal Kitab" is broadcast, after which he orders its repetition 101 times to erase all religions and sects.
A warning interrupts, declaring him an enemy of humanity and world peace, but Ajgar Raaj, confident in his destructive weapons, dismisses the threat.
The Prime Minister, returning from visits to various countries, reveals that the dragon king is no longer feared.
Civil unrest has erupted in his country, and people are rebelling against him. Many nations have expelled his citizens, leading to the dragon king's fury.
In retaliation, he orders an attack on India, but the Prime Minister discloses that the neighboring country wishes them to initiate the attack.
As the dragon king directs the army to attack, laughter ensues from all sides. The Prime Minister points out that the world, including India, is laughing at them. The play concludes with a collective laughter, highlighting the absurdity of the dragon king's delusions.
Natrang's young artists, including Abhimanyu Choudhary, Harshul Kaul, Kushal Bhat, and Chaitanya Shekhar, delivered compelling performances. Sanket Bhagat executed the lights and music of the play, while Mohd. Yaseen coordinated the show, and Palshin Dutta handled the presentations.
Through 'Ajgar Raaj,' Natrang successfully combines satire and social commentary, encouraging reflection on the consequences of imperialistic endeavors and the folly of megalomaniacal leaders. |
