Taiwanese theatrical production कर्ण Karna to make India debut at 24th Bharat Rang Mahotsav

New Delhi. In a remarkable celebration of cultural exchange, the highly anticipated theatrical production कर्ण Karna, inspired by the legendary Indian epic Mahabharata, is set to be staged in India this February as part of the 24th Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2025. Directed by Chongtham Jayanta Meetei, a prominent Taiwanese theatre artist of the Indian origin, the play hugely captivated audiences with its debut at the Taiwan Opera Festival in 2023.

Now, Indian viewers will get the chance to experience this groundbreaking fusion of classical Indian storytelling with the artistic heritage of Taiwan.

The performances directed by Ex-Theatre Asia are scheduled to take place at Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi on February 11, 2025, and at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur on February 13, 2025. This cross-cultural masterpiece promises an extraordinary retelling of Karna’s journey, blending traditional Indian narratives with contemporary theatrical elements and the elegance of Chinese opera.

The theatrical production कर्ण Karna boasts a talented international cast and crew. The actors include Chao Hsin and Chen Kuan-Tien from Taiwan, alongside Indian performers Mohd Shahnawaj, Medha Aich, and Sayan Sarkar. Adding to the rich cultural experience, the musical score is crafted by renowned musicians Sunit Kumar Bora and Bhaskar Jyoti Konwar. This ensemble of artists brings together diverse traditions to present a unique and compelling interpretation of the epic Mahabharata, promising audiences a visual and auditory treat.

The production represents a unique artistic collaboration between India and Taiwan. It offers audiences an opportunity to witness a dynamic reinterpretation of one of Indian mythology’s most iconic figures, Karna, known for his complex character and unwavering commitment to duty. The narrative delves into his struggles and heroism, presenting timeless themes in a fresh and thought-provoking manner.

कर्ण Karna is more than just a retelling of the Mahabharata. It is a visual spectacle that highlights the beauty of cultural synthesis. The play’s creators have seamlessly blended traditional performance arts with modern techniques, offering a rich sensory experience that redefines classical theatre. This approach not only preserves the integrity of ancient art forms but also makes them accessible to contemporary audiences across cultural boundaries.

The two performances in India are expected to attract large crowds, with enthusiasts from both the theatre and literary communities keen to experience this unique blend of tradition and innovation. With elaborate costumes, intricate stage designs, and an original musical score, कर्ण Karna promises to offer an immersive theatrical experience unlike anything seen before.

While emphasizing the significance of this project as a cultural bridge, Robert (Nobita) HSIEH Bro-Huei, Deputy Representative, Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) that functions as a defecto embassy for Taiwan in New Delhi, said that the theatrical production कर्ण Karna  carried more significance than just being a play as it strengthened the bond between Taiwan and India.

Isabel P.H. Lin, Assistant Representative, TECC expected that the कर्ण Karna would attract a huge crowd in New Delhi and Jaipur. She said that the theatrical production कर्ण Karna is set to be staged as the grand finale and closing performance of the annual 24th Bharat Rang Mahotsav. Serving as a highlight of this prestigious event, कर्ण Karna will conclude the festival with its extraordinary blend of Indian and Taiwanese artistry.

Being organized by the National School of Drama, the Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s largest theatre festival, will run from January 28 to February 16, 2025, featuring an impressive lineup of 65 Indian productions and 10 international plays. With its captivating narrative and cross-cultural collaboration, कर्ण Karna promises to provide a fitting and memorable conclusion to this grand theatrical celebration.

According to the officials of the play, the production pays homage to the shared values of heroism, honor, and sacrifice, which are integral to both Indian and Taiwanese cultures. They hope that कर्ण Karna would inspire viewers to reflect on the meaning of heroism in today’s world, urging them to see it not as an abstract ideal but as a personal journey shaped by one’s choices.