An epic retelling of the Mahabharat in Delhi

For many of us, BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, that aired from 1988 to1990, was an integral part of our childhood. The epic show, which ran on DD National and featured veterans, including Puneet Issar, Gufi Paintal and several others, was recreated on stage in Delhi. In a three-hour production directed by Puneet Isaar, actors dressed in elaborate costumes and ornate jewellery transported the audience to the palace of Hastinapur.
‘Delhi audience is receptive’
Puneet, who played Duryodhan in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, returned to the stage almost 30 years later with this production. The actor said, “In recent times, I have realised that the younger audience is getting more inclined towards the mythological genre. Bahubali and Padmaavat were path-breaking films that broke all records. People want a narrative with opulence, and what better storytelling other than the Mahabharat – a story close to the heart of every Indian? Duryodhan is a role I have been synonymous with and my knowledge about the subject and my passion to play the role once again compelled me to make it into a stage show.”
He added, “One of the biggest challenges was to concise the entire story into a production of three hours. It was like putting an elephant into a matchbox. It was extremely challenging, as it’s a story every Indian is aware of.” Praising the Delhi audience, the actor said, “Delhi audience is extremely receptive. That is also because people here speak and understand Hindi. They applauded at some of the most iconic moments and at the right times, which was really encouraging for the cast. The character of Duryodhan is imbibed into my inner being. For me, it’s like cycling, you can never forget how you did it!”
Karan Sharma as Arjun and Rahul Bhuchar as Karn
Among a number of important sequences, several heart-wrenching moments were enacted on stage, including Draupadi’s cheer-haran and Kunti-Karn samvad, among others. On playing younger Duryodhan, Siddhant Issar, said, “My father (Puneet Issar) has immortalized the role and this was a legacy I had to continue. The challenge was to match up with the expectations that people have from me. I had a great support system in my father who knew the entire story behind my character (Duryodhan), and he guided me all through.” He added, “I did the best that I could and am happy people appreciated it. As they say, a performer is only as good as the audience and the audience in Delhi encouraged us all to give our 200%. I just loved performing in the capital.”
Yashodhan Rana as Krishna
Raza Murad
Meghna Malik as Dharti maa
Nostalgia: LK Advani with his daughter Pratibha Advani
Rama Sharma, principal, Hansraj College