Artistes of a theatre group from Himachal Pradesh perform Sakharam Binder at the National Multilingual Drama Festival in Bhubaneswar. Pictures by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, March 4: The all-time classic play Sakharam Binder written by master playwright Vijay Tendulkar left the audience spellbound at the 13th National Multilingual Drama Festival.

The play, that is critically acclaimed all over the country for its unique perspective on the male dominated society in rural areas and on emotional values in physical relationships, left theatre lovers moved.

Performed by artistes of Himachal Pradesh Culture Research Forum and Theatre Repertoire, the play that was first staged in 1970s, received an enthusiastic response in the city.

The protagonist of the story, Sakharam, a book binder, was played by Suresh Sharma, repertoire chief, National School of Drama, who had also directed it.

Revolving around the attitude of Sakharam towards women, the story began with a scene when he brings home Laxmi, a woman deserted by her husband. He allowed her to live in his house but is expected to serve him, even physically. Sakharam had given her the freedom to leave him whenever she wished to.

After few days Laxmi left and Sakharam, who had similar experiences and relationships with many forlorn women, brought another female, Champa.

The character of the book binder was fascinating since he always spoke the truth and was a secular person. He never had a strong affection towards any woman in his life. But he developed an inclination towards Champa.

When Laxmi returned after few days, she underwent jealousy and bitterness, so much that she poisoned Sakharam’s mind against Champa.

Finally, Champa is murdered. But the incident left Sakharam’s attitude towards relationships changed forever.

With an intriguing plot that captivated the audience’s imagination with its extraordinary characters, the play came out well with an impressive set design and smartly used effects of light.

Originally written in Marathi but performed in Hindi here, the drama won many hearts in the capital city. “We were privileged to have got a chance to watch this play. It was such a remarkable plot,” said Shekhar Nanda, a theatre-lover.

“The character of the protagonist Sakharam was such a real one. Many women are indeed exploited as per the wishes of men. I simply loved the performance,” said Shraddha Paikray, a viewer.

The Multilingual Drama Festival will continue till March 7 at the Rabindra Mandap in the city.