Play name: Dohri ZindagiGenre: DramaCast: Neha Singh, Bharati Perwani, Kewal KarthikDirector: Gurleen Judge and Neha SinghDuration: 1 hr 20 minsLanguage: Hindi and MarwariRating: 3.5/5What starts as a fun Rajasthani folktale about an arranged marriage soon opens up into a layered exploration of gender, love and identity. Dohri Zindagi is a short story by Padmashri Vijaydan Detha and adapted for the stage by Neha Singh is a story of two merchants in rural Rajasthan who promise their unborn kids to each other in marriage. When both families have daughters, one child is secretly raised as a boy. Years later, the two are married, setting in motion a story that is equal parts folk tale, comedy, romance and social commentary.The start of the play feels a bit rushed with characters and relationships introduced in quick succession. As Neha Singh and Bharati Perwani switch between multiple roles swiftly, the audience might need a few minutes to understand who is who. Once the dots are joined, the play settles into an interesting rhythm with folk music and poetry adding depth to the story and evoking a charm of rural Rajasthan. The supernatural elements added another layer of charm to the story, showcasing the villagers’ world and beliefs. From narrators to villagers to the main characters – Beeja and Teeja, Neha and Bharati performed with remarkable ease. Their eloquent dialogue delivery, strong stage presence, and expressive performance ensured that every character stood out and felt memorable. Beneath the humour and whimsy of the play lies a sharp take on patriarchy, queer love, gender roles, and dowry – things that feel strikingly similar even in today’s time. Should you watch it?Watch it because the play uses the folklore language to ask questions that remain startlingly relevant even today.Watch Dohri Zindagi at Ranga Shankara on June 20 at 3.30pm and 7.30pm
