HYDERABAD: After facing threats of being banned in Mumbai and Kerala following objections from Catholic groups, ‘Agnes of God’— an adaptation of a drama written by American playwright John Pielmeier, about the ordeal of a nun who gave birth to a child - is also facing the wrath of the community in Hyderabad.
Various Catholic/Christian associations in Hyderabad have upped the ante seeking a ban on the play. The protesters warned that if the government fails to stop the play from being screened, there will be ‘serious’ repercussions. The play is scheduled to be staged at Lamakaan in Banjara Hills on October 9 and 10.
Father S Bernard, vicar general of Hyderabad Archdiocese, claimed that the play hurts the sentiments of the community. “The religious sentiments of Catholics/Christians have been gravely hurt by a highly objectionable play ‘Agnes of God’. Our objections to the play begins with the title itself, which is an adulterated version of the Latin phrase Agnus Dei (Lamb of God), referring to Lord Jesus Christ and his birth through Mother Mary’s immaculate conception. If the play is not banned, then we will hold massive protests near the venue,” he warned.
“Any untoward incidents that happens on Friday will be the responsibility of the government,” said Martin Michel, Secretary General of Catholic Federation of Telangana State.
Catholic associations have written to CM K Chandrashekar Rao and Hyderabad Police Commissioner M Mahendar Reddy seeking to ban the play.
Speaking to Express, Vinay Verma, director of ‘Agnes of God’ said the controversy is unnecessary. “I don’t know from where they get Jesus and Christianity into the play. If they don’t like it, no one is forcing them to watch it.”
He said asking for a ban has become fashionable. “We need a ban on bans. Or ban all religions so that there will be no dictatorship and all that we care for will be bread and butter,” he added.
