The stage is set for yet another edition of the much-anticipated Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival, with Hyderabad rolling out its red carpet for an ensemble of theatre’s finest talents from November 6 to 10. This year, the spotlight shines brightly upon an emotional tribute as the festival commemorates the life and contributions of Begum Razia Baig, the festival’s co-founder and driving force for nearly two decades. Having passed away in March, her legacy continues through the festival, now under the stewardship of her son, actor and theatre stalwart Mohammad Ali Baig.
The 19th edition of the prestigious festival carries forward the innovative spirit Begum Razia imbued into it year after year. This time, the festival carries a particularly poignant theme centered on women and an ode to motherhood, a motif chosen to honor Begum Razia’s nurturing presence and vision. Mohammad Ali Baig articulates the essence of this year’s theme, explaining that it aims to celebrate the manifold roles women enact both on and off stage. “This year’s festival is women-centric in its theme and we pay homage to motherhood,” he says, encapsulating the festival’s vibrant narrative for 2024.
Held at the iconic Taramati Baradari Cultural Complex, the festival promises five days of dynamic performances, illuminating workshops, and enriching masterclasses, attracting luminaries and novices alike in wind-and-cloud dialogues of art and expression. The festival’s grand opening is heralded by an intriguing stand-up comedy performance. Renowned actor Ashish Vidyarthi will set the tone with his act Vitthal Kaanya, drawn from his famed role in the Hindi film Vaastav. The nature of clean, responsible humor is at the forefront, as Baig asserts, emphasizing a comedy narrative that is inclusive and civil.
Fans of classic and contemporary theatre can anticipate a diverse lineup that stretches across genres and geographies. The audience will experience the confluence of cultures with satire, mature romance, and presenting the rich fabric of dance theatre.
. Part of this eclectic showcase is Miracle on Matunga Street, a domestic adaptation of Tom Dudzick’s renowned comedy-drama, which sees celebrated actors Ila Arun and KK Raina exploring familial and social narratives. Significantly, international collaborations are also a highlight with the British Council facilitating the UK-based Wright and Grainger’s English play Helios, an imaginative retelling of classic Greek mythology suited for the modern stage.
The festival further dives into the complexities of romance and human emotions with Nadira Babbar’s play, Farida. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Kashmir, this romantic tale is nurtured by the Mumbai-based Ejkute Theatre Group and brings forth an exploration of love, loss, and redemption in one of the world’s most enigmatic settings.
Dance enthusiasts will be treated to a different art form’s bewitching narratives. Bengaluru-based Chithkala School of Dance, under the tutelage of Praveen Kumar, presents Thyagaraja Hruth Sadhana, a production that intertwines classical dance with theatrical expression. Similarly, ACT 24 theatre group introduces audiences to a Hindi rendition of Arbuzov’s Russian play Do You Turn Somersaults? with their nuanced production titled Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai.
Concluding the festival’s rich tapestry is Mystical Fragrance – An Ode to Motherhood, a soulful poetry session. This performance features a confluence of music and literature as classical singer Zila Khan, along with Mohammad Ali Baig and theatrical doyenne Dolly Thakore, delve into the eloquent verses of iconic poets like Ali Sardar Jafri, Edgar Allan Poe, and Rudyard Kipling. Here, the universal themes of love, loss, and life threads are poetically intertwined, offering an introspective climax to the festival’s multifaceted acts.
As Hyderabad transforms into a cultural mosaic celebrating theatre’s enduring allure, the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival not only becomes a platform for artistic voices but also an homage to the influential roles women play in weaving society’s intricate tapestry. This year’s edition stands as a testament to Begum Razia Baig’s enduring impact, transforming the theatrical stage into a lively intersection of stories, learning, and shared dreams.
