Does an intense passion for science preclude faith in religion? Shraddha’s latest play, “Hanuman,” written and directed by V. Sreevathson deals with the beliefs of two dedicated scientists and the “pioneering project” they undertake.
The play is set in ISRO. After the failure of a launch, the head resigns. Another leading scientist, an atheist, takes up the challenge of resurrecting the cause of science. He is helped by his devout subordinate who hits upon an ingenious scheme to reinstate the image of the institution and the country. They manage to win the sympathy and support of the Minister, a greenhorn in the job, to achieve their goal. Vital to the success of the project is a woman engineer who is pregnant (Vidya Balan in “Kahani”?).
The commitment of those who work for the cause of science, the hurdles they have to overcome and the triumph of faith are narrated in an absorbing manner in ‘Hanuman.’
Right from the beginning, the viewers were drawn into the issues raised owing to the well written dialogue and the crisp manner in which the plot was taken forward. The arguments put forth for both the believer and the non- believer were sharp and convincing.
V. Sreevathson played the role of the scientist who picks up the challenge. He was the pivot of the play and put across the conviction and the personality of the character effectively. R.B. Krishna came up with a natural portrayal as his subordinate who has unshakeable faith in the Supreme being who makes all things move - including space shuttles. Preethi Varma as the woman engineer contributed her mite; the rest of the team lent support. But it was V. Sridhar as the politician from Tamil Nadu helped by the private secretary (Shivaji Chaturvedi) who added zest to the play
(though he was a caricature whose ignorance bordered on the ludicrous). It was he, who was given the best lines about the passion and the sacrifice of scientists who labour for the nation. And he delivered them well.
The sets were by Padma Stage Kannan. The huge photographs of pioneering scientists of the country made for an appropriate backdrop. But the work station was most elementary; it could have been have executed in a much more sophisticated fashion. The special effects - the rocket flying right into the auditorium and the launch of the missile - were very well executed by Shivaji Chaturvedi, and thrilled the audience
Though the play was about rockets, it was no rocket science with everything being reduced to the simplest terms for popular appeal. This along with simplistic touches like the indigenous manufacture of components prevented the play from being more complex and layered. The voice over of the newsreader was not satisfactory: the voice and enunciation were unsuitable. The confrontation between the scientist and the one man commission (Balaji) lacked credibility.
Music by Giridharan accompanied the journey of the shuttle from inception to launch with an understanding that was closely allied to the special effects. In the climactic launch, the music, visuals, words and emotions came together well. Make up (Perambur Kumar) was simple and natural.
Shraddha and Sreevathson were able to project a new trajectory by dealing with the subject of science in a mainstream sabha play. Though the theme of science versus religion is not new, by setting the debate right in the citadel of science the playwright succeeded in creating interest. This was a welcome change from the themes centring around the family flogged to death. The play was a positive stroke for gender equality and the approach of the playwright was highly appreciable. It highlighted women’s intelligence and focussed on sensitive men - so needed when we are beset by instances of horrifying bestiality everyday.
In all, a fine effort with popular appeal that underlined the need for space research. ‘Hanuman’ was a well produced and interesting venture where the acting, the special effects and the theme came together cohesively. The play held interest for both sceptics and believers but for the latter it had a specially endearing appeal.
‘Hanuman’ was jointly presented from July 20-23 by the Kartik Fine Arts, Sri Parthasarathy Swami Sabha, Narada Gana Sabha and the Brahma Gana Sabha.