CHENNAI: It’s a long standing debate between scientists and spiritualists about modern science and spirituality. But for playwright Seshadri, they both go hand-in-hand, and that is the basis of his play Puthiyna Pukuthalum, which will be staged on November 25.
Seshadri took to writing plays while he was working at the Department of Atomic Energy as he always loved cultural activities and actively took part in the office cultural events. And after retirement three years ago he has written over 30 plays, such as Manidhan Enbhavana, Om Shanthi Om and Emaatradhe Emaaradhe.
He explains that Puthiyna Pukuthalum depicts a conservative Brahmin family that follows the traditional Vedic way of life for generations. But they forget the fruits of science which go hand-in-hand with spirituality. What are the misconceptions they have conceived as alien to Vedic way of life? Do they remain rigid or do they realise their mistake?
“Using a few pointers and through a story, I am trying to emphasise that science actually aids spirituality,” he explains. “For instance, we use cow dung in the house entrance as an insecticide. But people believe it only as a spiritual ritual, and refuse to accept that it has scientific reasons too,” he opines.
A believer, Seshadri emphasises that he does not believe in blind customs and traditions. He has written around 30 plays so far, and most of them usually revolve around the concept of Karma. “No matter how spiritual you are and go to the temple every day, unless you have good karma, it won’t matter,” he avers.
Explored through eight characters, the 90-minute play follows this deeply conservative family’s discovery of science through various hardships and complex situations. “The story also emphasises that everyone can learn and read the Vedas, irrespective of caste and creed. Both sides of tradition and modern science are given equal importance in the play,” explains director Icarr Weeoui, known for his previous plays like Payanam.
Produced by Shree Thaayaar Kalai Koodam, Puthiyna Pukuthalum is a typical sabha nadagam, with elaborate sets and props, like in the olden times. Strong scientific themes are part of the play too, such as research on DNA-altering techniques as genetic therapy, which changes characteristics and behaviour of man.
Played twice in the city already, the director claims that the response has been good and the audience felt that this is much needed in this time of advancing modernism.
Watch it live
The Tamil play Puthiyna Pukuthalum will be staged at the Mylapore Fine Arts Club on November 25, at
6.45 pm. Entry is free. For details call: 7092548310