THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In its 25th year, the Kochi-based Lokadharmi Theatre Group is all set to stage their new drama, 'Kaali Natakam', an amalgam of the myth of Goddess Kali with the contemporary society.
It explores the myth of Goddess Kaali against the contemporary society's treatment of women. Directed by Chandradasan, this play is where ritualistic and realistic theatres dovetail into one magnificent narrative depicting stark realities.
"We portray the mythology of Kaali and Darika to audience in the context of modern society where a woman's power is suppressed. Even though woman are empowered, in reality she is subjugated in the society," said Sajitha Madathil who has scripted the play and plays Kaali, the protagonist.
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Kaali Natakam' is a ritual which is being revived at Valiyannor Kavu after 51 years. But the ritual takes a new turn when the artiste playing Kaali kills the artiste playing Darika, the demon king. After this, Kaali is subjected to different realities in the contemporary society - the faithful devotees, the police and the frivolous media. With this incident, for the devotees, the powers of 'Kaali' has upheld.
Whereas for the police, she is culprit. But they are helpless in front of the strong devotees and for the media it is a 'hot cake' for the prime time. The play revolves around how Kaali defines her new position in the new world, where only injustices await women.
"Actors from across Kerala were selected through meticulous audition process. The selected actors were then trained with Mudiyettu and Kaliyoottu artistes as part of the rehearsal. The rehearsals are progressing as the show dates are fast approaching. Resmi Satheesh leads the group of singers and also plays the part of Kooli, the sidekick of Goddess Kali," said Chandradasan who is known for the dramas such as Karnnabharam, Chathankattu and Poranadi.
Paris Chandran has scored the original music notes for this play, which is packed with songs.
The cast also includes Zumesh Chittoran, Gopan Mangat, Devika Hemanth and Jayachandran Thakazhi. Renowned makeup artiste Pattanam Rasheed is handling the makeup while Rajeev P Damodaran is the costume designer.
The play is presented by Lokadharmi and produced by Chennai Film Factory in association with Pepper House and CAC. The play will be presented at Pepper House, Fort Kochi on August 19, 20 and 21 and the online sale of tickets for the show has started.
Established in October 1991, by 25 theatre enthusiasts Lokadharmi has emerged as one of the important theatres in the country over the years.