What began as a theatrical exercise at the conclusion of a workshop in Jalandhar evolved into an improvisational performance that served as a cathartic channel for women to express deep-seated traumas and unvoiced experiences shaped by patriarchal structures.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the all-women theatre workshop, named ‘Kirdaar’, organized by YUVAA under the direction of its founder Dr. Ankur Sharma, culminated in an improvisational performance titled ‘She – Some Tales of Her’. This production provided a significant avenue for women to share their personal histories and struggles. The performance took place at Pehli Manzil, a space already known within Jalandhar’s cultural circles for book readings and social gatherings.
‘She’ was an adaptation of YUVAA’s critically acclaimed play ‘Muzeum’, which has previously been presented on prominent theatrical stages and even at Yale University. This particular iteration, however, saw YUVAA deliberately experiment with the performance venue, the participants, and the audience dynamic. Sharma brought the theatre workshop to this unconventional artistic hub within the city, aiming for a more intimate and resonant communion.
The original play, ‘Muzeum’, a frequent feature at theatre festivals, delves into the pervasive issues of abuse, harassment, and misogyny that have afflicted generations of Indian women across various social strata. Its narrative draws inspiration from well-documented cases, including that of Bhanwari Devi, who faced retribution for opposing child marriage, as well as the tragic incidents involving Rinku Patil, Jessica Lal, and Naina Sahni, which involved murder, rape, and severe abuse.
The ‘Kirdaar’ workshop specifically brought together women from Jalandhar, including those from established families and those with privileged backgrounds, providing them with an opportunity to engage with theatre in a secure and informal environment. The intention was to foster self-expression and creative exploration.
Dr. Ankur Sharma, the founder of YUVAA, stated that as the workshop progressed and participants engaged with the play’s readings, initial discussions about broader societal issues of patriarchy and abuse transitioned into deeply personal retellings. He noted, “What started as discussions on patriarchy and abuse turned into a cathartic retelling of women participants’ own experiences of abuse or misogyny directed at themselves or fellow women, neighbours etc.” During the final staging, the women spontaneously shared their stories, presenting a conversational interpretation of the play.
Sharma further elaborated on the genesis of ‘She’, explaining that the script came together rapidly, developed over just four days. He recalled the participants’ immediate and poignant response when he inquired about their past experiences: “‘What do you mean? Even now.’ That’s how ‘She’ came together,” Sharma said. He emphasized that the play reflects the enduring presence of patriarchal systems that persist even within seemingly progressive social frameworks, systems that women encounter and often must navigate daily.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
