A theatrical retelling that leaves a lasting impact

Cast: Rohit Dave, Aishwarya Dinesh, Jerusha Christopher, Syed Saad, Anu Karagada, Siddharth Nair, Malavika Manohar, Subharthi Kundu and others
Genre: Historical fiction/Drama
Director: Tahera S
Duration: 2hr 30mins
Language: English

There are very few books that stay in the heart and mind quite like Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns. And seeing Ursula Rani Sarma’s stage adaptation of this classic, directed by Tahera S, was an equally moving experience. Set during wartime in Kabul, the story follows Mariam and Laila, who are brought together by circumstances and bound by resilience, love and survival. Together, they form the emotional core of the play. Their relationship is a moving testament to sisterhood, solidarity, love and the extraordinary ways women become each other's refuge.

Aishwarya Dinesh as Mariam delivered a performance of remarkable depth. She inhabited the character completely, which brought vulnerability and power to every scene. Jerusha Christopher shone as Laila, portraying the character as it was written – intelligent and courageous. Her performance was emotionally raw, especially in moments of grief, making it impossible not to ache alongside her. As Rasheed, Subharthi Kundu perfectly captured the character's menace. His commanding presence, piercing gaze and a powerful voice created a sense of discomfort throughout. Rohit Dave as Jalil Khan was tender and complex. His final monologue was one of the most emotional moments from the play. Malvika, as Nana, is equally memorable, delivering a haunting performance that lingers long after her scenes end.

The production succeeded in transporting the audience straight into Kabul with its beautiful set design infused with Afghan aesthetics, be it the bed, the clothing, or the utensils. The background music, along with moments of humming and song, beautifully enhanced the emotional weight of the story. The movement and choreography emerged as another highlight in the play that provided relief amid the emotionally heavy narrations by the characters.

This was not an easy play to sit through; it demands emotional investment and a brave heart. The play serves as a reminder that while Mariam and Laila's story is fiction, the realities it depicts persist for countless women around the world. It is the kind of story that leaves the audience in tears, yet grateful for having witnessed it.

Should you watch it?
Watch with a brave heart because, like the book itself, the play leaves behind a quiet ache long after it ends.