Lucknow – A gentle breeze of hope, laughter, and introspection swept through the Sant Gadge Ji Maharaj auditorium during the eighth season of Repertwahr Weekends—a cultural initiative by the Repertwahr Foundation that continues to breathe life into Lucknow’s evolving theatre scene. The evening began on a high note with the staging of acclaimed Bollywood actor-director Lillete Dubey’s poignant play ‘Salaam, Noni Aapa’, offering the audience an experience that was equal parts charming, thought-provoking, and emotionally enriching.
The play, adapted from a short story by Twinkle Khanna, unfolds as a delicate, multi-layered tale that dares to question conventions and redefines the notion of love and companionship in the later years of life. Centered around Noni Aapa, a dignified elderly widow, and her free-spirited sister Binni, the narrative gently peels back the layers of familial bonds, societal expectations, and personal awakening.
What makes ‘Salaam, Noni Aapa’ truly unforgettable is its bold yet tender portrayal of mature romance. When Noni finds herself drawn toward a married man—who, to society’s disapproval, is also younger than her—she is caught in an emotional whirlwind. Should she follow her heart and embrace an unorthodox companionship? Or should she cling to the invisible rulebook that has long governed her life? The play tackles these questions with grace and authenticity, inviting the audience to reflect on their own ideas of morality, happiness, and societal validation.
The chemistry between the two lead characters, their banter, and their everyday camaraderie reflect a lifetime of shared memories. Dubey’s direction steers clear of melodrama, instead opting for a tone that is both intimate and universally resonant. The result is a theatrical piece that feels less like a performance and more like a mirror held up to the quiet joys and unspoken dilemmas of aging.
Speaking at the event, Bhoopesh Rai, founder of the Repertwahr Foundation, shared his vision: “Repertwahr Weekends is not just about performances—it’s about building a cultural rhythm in Lucknow. Our aim is to bring quality theatre from across India to this city and cultivate an appreciation for the art form across generations.”
With plays like ‘Salaam, Noni Aapa’, Repertwahr Weekends has cemented its role as a vibrant platform where stories that matter are not just told, but felt. The initiative, now in its eighth season, offers a refreshing blend of entertainment and introspection—delivering on its promise to give Lucknow a front-row seat to India’s finest theatrical talents every second Saturday and Sunday of the month.
As the audience filed out of the auditorium that evening—some teary-eyed, some smiling wistfully—one thing was clear: ‘Salaam, Noni Aapa’ had struck a chord. It served as a tender reminder that love has no age, courage has no expiry date, and life, no matter how far along the road, still has surprises to offer—if only we dare to take a detour.
Written by Twinkle Khanna
Directed by Lillete Dubey
Cast: Lillete Dubey, Yateen Karyekar, Jayati Bhatia, Rishi Khurana & Gillian Pinto
