Making Poetry Act

Inspired by a few real-life instances,Lakeerein reflects on the relationship between people of India and Pakistan,50 years after Independence. Through poetry,five ghazals sung by Seema Sehgal and stories of Gulzar,the play is a peek into the lives of people divided by common history and culture. These were people whose lives got affected by lines drawn on a piece of paper. “These are stories of hope,despair,passion and redemption with a thematic link. They have an emotional graph and chronological developments,” said Arif,who apart from Gulzar’s literary genius,credits actors Yashpal Sharma and Salim for giving life to words on stage.

Arif has closely worked with Gulzar over the years to create a unique repertory of plays. “We’ve been blessed to have someone like Gulzar sahab write for us. One thought which is expressed via poetry and prose,and an effortless flow to evoke emotional and ideological response unique to that of Gulzar sahab,is amazing to work with,” said Arif,whose play Lakeerein was staged in Tagore Theatre on Tuesday.

He rues the fact that the influence of Western drama on urban theatre has taken us away from the oral traditions of music and poetry,the core of Indian theatre,of which,Sanskrit plays are a fine instance. “We want to create an impact,one that touches the heart and gives the audience fresh content and something to take back home,” said Arif,who has been running his theatre company Essay Communications in Mumbai for the past 10 years.

“Salim Arif’s plays are not just entertainment. Behind every production,there is a theme and purpose. In fact,as an actor,I had to empty myself before playing three different roles in the stories LoC,Peer Sahab and Over,which are a part of the play. In one,there had to be complete restraint as an actor,in the other,I had to move ahead and at some junctures,the words and poetry just flowed without having to act,” observed Sharma,who is known for his roles in films like Lagaan and Gangajal. He adds that theatre and films are completely different platforms,with theatre giving you a solid footing. “The play is a tribute to the resilience of human spirit and shared values nurtured over centuries of common co-existence. Gulzar sahab draws from his vast personal experience on this theme and its consequences on the lives of the people,” said Salim.