Presentation of reality neglected in Punjabi society, says thespian
Amritsar, July 8
The process of creating any form of art is cathartic but should also be focused on future. Eminent theatre personality Kewal Dhaliwal said this while addressing the 19th edition of the Literature and Thought Creation Process held at Naad Pargaas, a literary forum that promotes Punjabi literature and language. Dhaliwal began his address by sharing his childhood experiences that shaped his future in theatre emphasising that art and artist become one in the process of creating.
He held in high esteem the role of Gursharan Singh (eminent dramatist and writer), who he fondly called Gursharan bauji and recalled his days at the National School of Drama as an inspiration for his creative journey. He pointed to the practicality of art creation, touching on many subtle aspects related to the presentation of the play.
“I grew as a dramatist only through the styles and narratives I used in my plays. I present the underlying meaning between society and individual relationship through my stage and the variables I use in my plays, which can be costumes, music, lighting, sound and more,” he said.
He explained how a play is different from the other genres of literature, “Yet, it is gradually blurring the lines between the genres as it heavily depends on literature as its primary source,” he pointed out.
Speaking about Punjabi drama, Dhaliwal said that the understanding and presentation of reality remain neglected in Punjabi society due to the continuous ‘all talk no action’ phenomenon prevalent among those accountable.
His address was followed by a discussion in which Dhaliwal engaged with the audience, including students of schools and colleges besides scholars of Punjabi language. He discussed cultural relevance in the translation process of a play, dramaturgy, drama and reality, drama and music and more.
Prof Jagdish Singh, Director, Naad Pargaas, said that dedication to the development of Punjabi drama continues through the next generation of scholars and dramatists, who are taking up burning issues in Punjab through the medium of theatre.
