Lucknow – Students of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning at Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow, delivered a spectacular theatrical rendition of the Indian epic Mahabharata on Saturday. The performance, held at the faculty’s open-air theater, was organized collaboratively by the Drama Club and the Art & Media Club, showcasing innovative stagecraft and creative storytelling.
The play brought to life the timeless saga of the Pandavas and Kauravas, exploring the struggles of dharma and adharma, and addressing complex life questions through a modern lens. The set design, costumes, lighting, and sound were all testament to the students’ collective creativity. Particularly notable was the architecturally inspired stage set, which added depth and vibrancy to the performance.
The audience included faculty members, students, and distinguished guests, who lauded the participants for their dedication, discipline, and artistic expression. Faculty Head Girish Pandey remarked, “The Mahabharata is not just a story but a philosophy of life. The students’ innovative interpretation is truly inspiring.”
The production was directed by Girish Pandey, with key contributions from Director Dev Mohini Dutta, writer Abdul Kalam, musicians Anugya, Utkarsh, and Katyayani, and costume design by Janvi Singh. Lead roles were performed by Amul (Yudhishthir), Hansaj (Bheem), Shaurya Saxena (Arjun), Rhtik (Sahadev), Shaurya Verma (Nakul), Vidit (Karna), Vansh (Duryodhan), Abhishek (Dushasan), Ashumendra (Dhritarashtra), Peshal (Vidur), Aditya Srivastava (Krishna), Aditya Tandon (Shakuni), Sparsh (Yaksha & Abhimanyu), Sachin (Dristadyumn), Amresh (Jayadrath), Ankit (Draupadi’s father), and Srishti (Draupadi).
The stage décor was expertly crafted by the Model and Art Clubs. Faculty members including Girish Pandey, Tabish Abdullah, Bhupendra Kumar Asthana, Laxmikant Mishra, Anjaney Sharma, and Ramesh Pandey, along with a large student audience, witnessed the event, celebrating the students’ artistic and cultural excellence.
This theatrical endeavor highlighted not only the students’ sensitivity towards art and literature but also served as a significant milestone in their overall personality development.
