A scene from the play Roudhiram Pazhagu.
| Picture Credit score: Particular Association
Earlier than Komal theatres’ play Roudhiram Pazhagu started, Dharini Komal (story and path) introduced that it was primarily based on the Nirbhaya rape case, which shook the nation some years in the past. But it surely turned out that it was not primarily based on the crime, however was principally a recounting of the precise occasions of the case. Solely the identify Nirbhaya had been modified to Deepika. The kernel of an thought stemming from an precise occasion is comprehensible. However a replica of what occurred may have been dealt with higher. Nonetheless, Dharini have to be complimented for just a few additions, just like the reactions of the politicians.
Whereas the opposition chief desires to make capital out of the tragedy, the ruling celebration desires to show public consideration away from the case. The celebration in energy decides to plant tales within the media in regards to the immorality of Deepika. The media sensationalises the case, including juicy, however utterly false particulars whereas reporting on the case.
A feeble try
Raudiram pazhagu is a line from poet Bharati. Be taught to be offended, says the poet. Righteous anger is important. Dad and mom who lose a toddler beneath such circumstances will, naturally, be shattered. However fury in opposition to the perpetrators will quickly rise to the floor. Not a lot anger was evident within the play. A feeble try at justification of the title got here in the direction of the top, when society was requested to be vocal in its protests. The play may need been extra convincing if it had talked about ladies studying self-defence methods, or about how legal guidelines may be modified to make sure that juveniles don’t escape condign punishment.
Lawyer Sangeetha’s arguments in court docket have been extra like homilies about how ladies can not be taken with no consideration, and many others. Anu Kannan, because the mom of the sufferer, portrayed her emotional devastation vividly. However even she didn’t present anger. There was a sure placidity in regards to the play, which felt completely misplaced.
