THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Girish Karnad’s magnum opus, Naagamandala, exposes the complexities of human relationships. Now, Kollam-based theatre troupe Kalidas Kalakendra is preparing to stage a Malayalam adaptation of this magical folktale on Sunday. Titled Naga, the two-hour play—which debuted in Kalady in August—is directed by National Award-winner K P Suveeran (of Byari fame) and features film stars Mukesh (Appanna/Naagaraja), Sandhya Rajendran (Kurudamma, a village elder), and renowned dancer Methil Devika (Rani) as the protagonists.
“Naaga examines the socio-contemporary scenario in rural India by focussing on an innocent village girl who uses a magic love potion to gain the attention of Appanna, her apathetic spouse,” explains Devika. “But the potion is accidentally consumed by a king cobra named Naagaraja who assumes the human form of Appanna during the day, to consummate his love. What follows is a complex plot that arises due to the seemingly dichotomous nature of Appanna.”
Over the top
As this is the Kendra Sahitya Nataka award-winning ensemble’s 56th production, they’ve gone all out—with fibreglass props (think huts and trees), a background score by composer Sreevalsan J Menon, choreography by Thiruvananthapuram-based Samudra Dance Company, and narration by actor Mohanlal. The costumes, including traditional saris, skirts and dhotis have been made in-house. “Though Naagamandala has been adapted by other theatre companies, what sets our production apart is the usage of Malayalam and the incorporation of puppetry to bring the Naagaraja to life,” concludes the 38-year-old Mohiniyattam dancer who is married to Mukesh.
At JTPAC from 7 pm.
Tickets from Rs 700 . Details: in.bookmyshow.com