Mysore/Mysuru: At the inaugural of the Mysuru Literature Festival-2023, Mysuru-based theatre group ‘Navodaya’ staged senior theatre personality and activist Prasanna’s ‘Ayodhya Kanda’. It is the first of his planned trilogy of Ramayana plays and as per the audience, the play was absolutely delightful, profound and moving.

The minimalist stage design served to enhance the performance, channelling the complete focus of the audience towards the talented artistes. Anush Shetty, C.S. Padmashree, Pradeep Udupi, Rajalakshmi, Sundaresh Devapiryam and Yadushreshta delivered compelling performances, showcasing their remarkable singing abilities as well. However, it was Padmashree, a graduate of the esteemed National School of Drama (NSD), who truly stole the show by seamlessly portraying multiple characters. Her portrayal of Mantara was nothing short of mesmerising, captivating the audience through her acting prowess, emotional depth, graceful dance moves, enchanting singing and athletic display.

The play cleverly incorporated the essence of Karnataka’s Yakshagana and Bayalata traditions, both in the props and dialogue, providing an earthy and authentic flavour. This enthralling production set the stage perfectly for an interesting day at the Festival. The performance skilfully bridged the old epic with new moral concerns while maintaining its narrative integrity. Prasanna’s rendition incorporates everyday moments that bring the epic to life and resonate with the contemporary moral imagination. It is a valuable addition to the ongoing tradition of Ramayana retellings that prioritise humanistic values in the present.