 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Feb 15: In connection with the completion of 25 years of 'Bhart Rang Mahotsav' (International Theatre Festival of India) National School of Drama organised an exclusive event entitled 'Vishwa Jan Rang' in which Natrang Jammu presented a Dogri play 'Kahani Natya Shastra Di' at Natrang Studio Theatre, Jammu. The play was translated into Dogri by Pawan Verma and directed by Neeraj Kant.
The play 'Kahani Natya Shasrte Di' based on Pancham Ved Ka Natya Lekhan" revolves around a conversation between Bharata Muni and a group of sages, exploring the origins and significance of Natyashastra. It begins with Bharata instructing his disciples to practice their performance with precision. Before they begin, five sages arrive, seeking answers about Natyashastra.
One of the sages asks Bharata about the purpose behind its creation. Bharata explains that during Treta Yuga, as people became consumed by greed and immorality, Lord Indra requested Lord Brahma to create a medium that could guide humanity toward righteousness, prosperity, desires, and liberation. In response, Brahma devised Natyaveda, a "fifth Veda" combining elements of the four Vedas to serve as a tool for education and moral upliftment through storytelling and performance.
Another sage questions why a new Veda was needed when the existing four already contained all knowledge. Bharata explains that Natyaveda was made for everyone, especially common people, providing them access to wisdom through an engaging and accessible medium. When asked about its composition, Bharata elaborates that its text and dialogue come from Rigveda, music from Samaveda, acting from Yajurveda, and emotions and aesthetics (Rasa) from Atharvaveda.
A sage then asks if Natyashastra was created solely for the gods. Bharata refutes this misconception, stating that theater is meant for all beings-gods, demons, and humans alike. It portrays both good and evil, offering reflection and solace to its audience. When another sage expresses concern about society's failure to value the arts, Bharata acknowledges the issue, stating that while artists dedicate themselves to their craft, it is up to rulers and leaders to provide support. He emphasizes that theater is a mirror to society, transcending religious and geographical boundaries and uniting humanity.
At last, Bharata declares Natyashastra as the "Pancham Veda," a complete synthesis of knowledge and emotions. As the discussion ends, he invites the sages to witness a performance, reinforcing the significance of theater in human life.
The artists who performed in the play included Pawan Verma, Vishal Sharma, Kushal Bhat, Aadesh Dhar, Adaksh Bagal, Aryan Sharma, Sanket Bhagat and Kartik Kumar. The lights of the play were executed by Mohd. Yaseen whereas the music of the play was scored by Kananpreet Kaur and composed by Brij Mohan. |
