Beating cancer with hope

On the occasion of National Doctor’s Day, a gripping tale of two women grappling with breast cancer was staged in Delhi. The play 'Cansurvive' was touted as the first production in the realm of Hindi playwriting based on how to approach cancer, its patients and its consequences. The script was written by Asif Ali. The play was staged as a part of the

Pink Chain Campaign

, an initiative by Abhishek Shankar, an oncologist, to create awareness of regarding cancer.

Superstitions, patriarchy also cancerous
The play was directed by Vandana Vashisht, an alumnus of the National School of Drama. It showed not only the disease taking a toll on individual lives, but also discussed the symbolic ‘cancers’ of society – superstition and patriarchy.

Hope and survival
The story revolves around Rajni and Kamal (played by Sajida and Sonal Jha, respectively), who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. While Rajni is determined to fight the ailment, Kamal keeps losing her resolve, partly because she doesn’t have any support system. Her husband, played by Bhupesh Kumar Pandya, conveniently files for divorce when he is not able to deal with his wife’s condition and trauma. The play ends with the women becoming each other’s strength while fighting the disease.

Delhi audience Vs Mumbai Audience
Sonal, who has been part of many TV soaps and a few films, said, "One of my cousins lost the battle against cancer. I watched many videos on cancer survivors in order to understand and play my character well. Performing in Delhi is a special feeling because here, people have a more refined taste for theatre. In Mumbai, commercial plays hi hote hain mostly, but Delhi provides a space for experimental plays as well." Bhupesh, who has acted in films and TV soaps, added, "It’s nice that at a time when people prefer comedy, many turned up to see a play on a serious issue.” Vandana was also equally elated with the feedback she got. "There were a few technical glitches, but we are happy that this play is doing its bit in spreading awareness," she said.