In a mesmerizing blend of history and drama, Bihar’s cultural scene lit up with the mahanatya ‘Karmayogini Mata Ahilya’ celebrating Queen Ahilyabai Holkar’s 300th birth anniversary at Premchand Rangshala. Hosted by Bihar Sangeet Natak Akademi, the event saw Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sinha pay profound respects.
Sinha bowed before Ahilyabai’s image with flowers and ignited the ceremonial lamp, setting a reverent tone. Speaking to the press, he described her as a beacon of Sanatan Dharma’s values, fueling the new generation’s cultural revival. ‘Prime Minister Modi mirrors her service-oriented life in nation-building,’ Sinha added, urging pride in heritage while forging ahead in modern times.
CCRT Chairman Dr. Vinod Narayan Indurkar elaborated on the initiative to dramatize great lives for posterity. Following successes with plays on warrior queens and saints, this historical epic delves into Ahilyabai’s era of chaos, her triumphs in politics, religion, and architecture. ‘Theatres like this, rich in music and narrative, make ancient tales relatable and impactful,’ he said.
The dual casting captivated viewers: Janavi Singh as the mischievous young Ahilyabai, highlighting her precocious handling of duties post-childhood marriage. ‘It’s empowering to show how she navigated challenges young,’ Singh enthused, noting performances in multiple cities.
Veteran portrayal by Shara Sharma brought gravitas to the queen’s later years. ‘Reviving her spirit teaches resilience and unity through every trial,’ Sharma shared. Ahilyabai’s fame as a builder of grand temples and champion of justice cements her as a timeless Karmayogi, with the play reinforcing her relevance in contemporary society.