Pune: Without any grand or elaborate set design, the play Babdya Bolki has been performed on a plain black curtain stage, lit by just two halogen lights or simple household lighting. The strength of the writing, the richness of the subject matter, and the powerful performances have led this play to complete 25 performances in just 40 days. This thought-provoking and eye-opening play resonates with both children and adults, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from kids and parents alike.
The aim of the play is not just entertainment but also education and delivering a message. With this goal in mind, the play, written and directed by Devdatt Pathak and assisted in direction by Milind Kelkar, emphasizes the importance of utilizing children’s theater, especially for young audiences. The play addresses audiences of all ages, from children to the elderly, making it significant for everyone. The performances deeply move the audience, tackling issues like the excessive use of online games, video games, and mobile phones, which lead to the waste of time, energy, and various health problems.
The play offers a different solution, emphasizing the value of the elderly in society. It has been well-received by audiences, including schools, colleges, social groups, and cultural organizations. It’s being performed in local neighborhoods and rural areas, gaining widespread support. This initiative operates without the expectation of high fees, aiming to bring theater into people’s homes for their enjoyment. The play runs on a voluntary honorarium.
The narrators, Usha Deshpande, Seema Jogdankar, and Rutuja Kelkar, guide the performance, while the young actors, Arnava Deshpande, Alok Jogdankar, Sayli Chavan, Anjali Chavan, Dhanashree Gawas, Akshata Jogdankar, and Arya Karpe from Guru School Foundation – Gufan, balance their school and college lives alongside their work in the play.
In these challenging times, when theater production costs have become difficult to bear, Babdya Bolki manages to pull off successful performances with minimal expenses – a simple black curtain, two halogen lights, and some complementary music. This experimental approach is refreshing, relying heavily on excellent direction and strong acting.
The 25th performance was recently held at the 106-year-old SNDT Girls School and College, where many dignitaries attended, praising the play. Hundreds of students left inspired, even taking an oath to use mobile phones wisely.