IT'S story about Arjuna, the Pandava prince, taking a journey and doing penance to receive Paasupathaasthra from Lord Shiva. Arjunan Thapasu, written by N Muthuswamy was staged by Koothu-p-pattarai last week. The audiences were so eagerly watching that they didn’t leave the place even after the play was over. The play attempted to portray that arms race exists from time immemorial, and countries continue to horde weapons for war.
Two dramatic elements have been introduced in the play. One is how the women's scent attracts the Pancha Pandavas and Lord Shiva and the other is about Ekalavya's disciples. Sage Vyasa tells Dharma to send Arjuna on a journey to receive the Paasupathaasthra from Lord Shiva. Arjuna starts a northward journey to the Himalayas, the abode of Lord Shiva. On the way, he faces many obstacles, which test his concentration and determination. He is wooed by the beautiful Mohini, and the lustful Perandi tries to seduce him. The scene got good appreciation from the audiences. Arjuna overcomes these and reaches the Himalayas.
Here Arjuna starts a rigorous penance, but again, Mookaasuran, a demon sent by Duryodhana arrives to disturb him. Then Lord Shiva, disguised as Perandan, also enters the scene chasing the demon away. A twist in the tale occurs here when the disciples of Ekalavya, who are there to witness Arjuna's penance, kill the demon. These disciples argue with Lord Shiva that Arjuna should not be granted the weapon, as it is deadly and capable of destroying the entire world. The disciples suggest that the Pandavas could make use of 'Women's Scent', a peaceful alternative to win the war.
One of the disciples demonstrates how this scent works, and all the men, including Lord Shiva, start running behind her. Whereupon Draupadi enters, recalling her vow that the Kouravas be destroyed, and shuns the scent alternative on moral grounds. Ekalavya’s disciples demonstrate how capable they are by performing acroasanas. The play ends with Arjuna receiving the Paasupathaasthra from Lord Shiva.
The play will be staged on March 13, 14 and 15 at Koothu-p-Pattarai, No 1, Vaikasi Street, Chinmaya Nagar stage-II, Virugambakkam. Passes are available at the venue.
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