'Sultana': Play to portray women's struggle for freedom, justice against oppressive societal norms

A new play by renowned theatre artist Rama Pandey will portray womens struggle for freedom and justice in the face of oppressive societal norms.Presented by Rama Theatre Natya Vidya Sanstha, the play will be staged at Shri Ram Centre here on May 12.The story, written by Pandey, follows Sultana who is forcibly married to her diseased sisters husband at the age of 15.

A new play by renowned theatre artist Rama Pandey will portray women's struggle for freedom and justice in the face of oppressive societal norms.

Presented by Rama Theatre Natya Vidya Sanstha, the play will be staged at Shri Ram Centre here on May 12.

The story, written by Pandey, follows Sultana who is forcibly married to her diseased sister's husband at the age of 15. Feeling trapped and alone, Sultana seeks refuge in her school teacher, Uma.

And together, the two women fight against the oppressive norms of their society. Through their struggle, they inspire others to question the status quo and demand change, the organisers said.

''Sultana is one of the most challenging plays that I have done. Dealing with the untouched subject of marrying young girls forcefully to their immediate relatives. Those men who have been widowed with children. Hindu and Muslim societies are still following this dark custom, creating helplessness and despair for the young girls in the village of Rangrez in Rajasthan,'' Pandey said.

The show will see the participation of the members of the Rangrez community from Rajasthan's Sikar and Jaipur. ''The play is not just a story about one woman's struggle, but a reflection of the larger societal issues of gender inequality, social pressure, and the struggle for justice and freedom. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and human rights that we all face,'' the director said.