G. Venu's Mrcchakatikam by Natanakairali

Witness the historic staging of Sudraka’s timeless story Mṛcchakatikam, brought to life in the ancient Sanskrit theatre form of Kutiyattam under the visionary direction of Padma Shri G. Venu.

A timeless tale of love, virtue, and destiny comes alive in a historic first with the classic Mṛcchakatikam (The Little Clay Cart) performed in the ancient Sanskrit theatre form of Kutiyattam. Directed by the legendary Padma Shri G. Venu and created under a grant from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies Foundation and Bhoomija Trust, this landmark production bridges two millennia of Indian theatrical heritage.

Written by Sudraka, the story departs from the divine and royal themes typical of its time to portray the lives of ordinary people. The story follows Vasantasena, a courtesan whose grace and courage transform the fate of Charudatta, a noble but impoverished Brahmin. Amid mistaken identities, moral conflict, and the triumph of truth, the play celebrates compassion, love, and social justice—themes that remain as resonant today as they were centuries ago.

Performed in Kutiyattam, the world’s oldest living theatre tradition recognised by UNESCO, this adaptation weaves stylised gesture, expressive mime, and ritual precision to reimagine Sudraka’s world with poetic depth. Guided by G. Venu’s vision and Natanakairali’s mastery, the performance honours classical discipline while opening new space for contemporary reflection, marking a rare and momentous dialogue between past and present.
 

This performance is supported by Reliance Foundation

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