Changing Relationships and Family Fragmentation Portrayed through ‘Bali aur Shambhu’

Udaipur, A powerful staging of the play "Bali aur Shambhu," written by Manav Kaul, was organized at Vidya Bhawan Auditorium under the joint auspices of Maulik Sansthan and the UGC Women’s Center of Sukhadia University. Supported by House of Things, the play was directed by Jatin Bharwani.

The story, set in an old-age home, revolves around two elderly men and highlights the growing fragmentation in families and the evolution of relationships over time. Bali aur Shambhu reflects a phase of life when the body tires but the spirit continues to dream and strive. The narrative weaves together loneliness, humiliation, and memories, offering a poignant new interpretation of life. The play thoughtfully explores themes of mental health, family breakdowns, shifting societal bonds, repentance, and forgiveness, blending emotional depth with light humor.

The gripping performance urged the audience to reflect on the essential needs at life’s twilight—acceptance, affection, and communication.

Lead actors Sudhanshu Adha and Jayesh Sindhi brought the characters of Bali and Shambhu vividly to life with their stellar performances. Supporting actors Gunisha Makol, Himanshi Chaubisa, Payal Menaria, Shona Malhotra, Jhilmil, Priyanshu Singh Rao, Pravar Khandelwal, Priyanshi Jaysinghani, Yashasvi Srivastava, Soumya Joshi, and Mili Goyal added energy and soul to their roles. Director Jatin Bharwani also impressed the audience by portraying the character of Shubhankar.

The play was well-received by audiences across all age groups, who praised the outstanding performances and celebrated the vibrant tradition of theater.