SHIVRATRI

Set in 12th-century Karnataka, Shivaratri unfolds during the transformative era of Basavanna, a revered poet, social reformer, and minister of Kalyan Nagar under the rule of Bijjal Maharaja, the second. Basavanna gave a new face to the bhakti movement by forging a direct spiritual connection with Lord Shiva without any mediation. He promoted the ideas of Ahimsa and equality while strongly rejecting the prevailing superstitions through his poetry, called Vachanas. It was he who first introduced the idea of parliamentary democracy through his Anubhava Mantapa, an egalitarian space where people from all caste, class and gender discussed and debated questions of life and faith.

The story centers on a daring inter caste marriage that challenges the rigid caste system and traditional norms of the time. This bold act throws society into turmoil, exposing deeply rooted biases and fears.

At its core, it is a fierce ideological clash between Bijjala Maharaja, the protector of tradition, and Basavanna, a visionary of equality.

Rooted in historical events, the play captures the vibrant folk culture of northern Karnataka. It also creatively incorporates various other southern folk forms. Shivaratri remains strikingly relevant, shedding light on contemporary struggles against caste discrimination, offering a powerful, thought-provoking theatrical experience.