“Ulpi” unfolds against the backdrop of ancient mythology, drawing from the sacred Puranas that guide human culture and traditions. The play delves into the intricate tapestry of relationships among different clans, exploring the dynamics of friendship and enmity rooted in pride, land, and lineage. The narrative takes a poignant turn when the Pandavas, driven from their home, inadvertently disrupt the lives of the Nagas in the Khandava forest. This displacement sparks enmity, particularly between Princess Ulpi of the Nagas and Arjuna, Kunti’s son. As the drama unfolds, it weaves a tale of love amidst historical conflicts, revealing the transformative power of love to bridge divides and overcome deep-seated enmity. Set against the enduring landscape of Ulapgarh Hills, the play “Ulpi” explores the profound connection between the Naga princess and the middle Pandava, Arjuna, offering a timeless reflection on the complexities of human relationships.
Director
Dr.Subash Chandra Pradhan, a luminary in Odisha’s theatrical landscape, boasts an illustrious 32-year journey as a theatre artist and director. The visionary founder-director of Mirror Theatre, Dr.Pradhan has scripted and directed over 100 full-length plays and 30 children’s plays, earning accolades for productions like “Dwitiya Gandhi, “Lal Paen “, Pachhen, Badkha Dada,” and the critically acclaimed “Ulpi.”
Beyond the stage, Dr.Pradhan is a stalwart in theatre education, regularly conducting workshops for children and crafting theatre curricula for schools in Odisha. His directorial prowess extends to orchestrating 12 plays for the year-long drama festival 2021-2022 at Mirror Theatre’s own stage. Notably, Pradhan directed the groundbreaking “Kaenjuri,” a 49-hour nonstop Sambalpuri drama featuring 218 artists in December, 1st to2 nd, 2023.
His theatrical footprint extends globally, with performances at international festivals in Norway, Finland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, and Denmark. Dr.Subash Chandra Pradhan stands as a beacon, blending artistic innovation with a commitment to theatre’s transformative power.
Writer
Dr. Subash Chandra Pradhan, a luminary in Odisha’s theatrical realm, celebrates a remarkable 32-year journey as a prolific theatre artist and writer. The visionary founder-writer of Mirror Theatre, Dr. Pradhan has penned over More than 100 full-length plays and 50 children’s plays, garnering acclaim for productions such as “Dwitiya Gandhi,” “Lal Paen,” “Pachhen,” and the critically acclaimed “Ulpi.”
In addition to his stage contributions, Pradhan is a stalwart in theatre education, conducting workshops for children and shaping theatre curricula in Odisha. His writing prowess extends to overseeing 12 plays during the 2021-2022 year-long drama festival at Mirror Theatre’s stage. Notably,
Dr. Pradhan authored the groundbreaking “Kaenjuri,” a 48-hour nonstop Sambalpuri drama featuring 218 artists & 82 Supporting Members in 2023. He has also authored books published by different publishers, and his renowned play “LAL PAEN” was printed and published by Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2021.
Dr. Pradhan’s theatrical influence transcends borders, with performances at international festivals across Europe. A beacon of artistic innovation, Dr. Subash Chandra Pradhan remains dedicated to the transformative power of theatre.
Director’s Note
“Ulpi” is not just a theatrical rendition of the Mahabharata; it is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of love, reconciliation, and the transformative power of human connection. As we bring the timeless love story of Arjuna and Ulpi to the stage, we aim to transcend the boundaries of ancient epics and resonate with the pulse of today’s society.
In this production, the narrative becomes a living testament to the possibility of turning enmity into friendship, mirroring the potential for positive change in our own lives. Beyond the confines of myth, “Ulpi” becomes a mirror reflecting the urgent need for a world free from the shackles of violence and war.
May this play serve as a catalyst for introspection, inspiring our audience to embrace compassion, forge connections, and contribute to the creation of a more loving world. Through the lens of Arjuna and Ulpi’s love, let us collectively envision and work towards a brighter, harmonious future.
Group
Founded in 1993 in Jharsuguda, Odisha, Mirror Theatre is a prominent theatre research and promotion organization, making a significant impact on the state’s social, cultural, and intellectual life. With over more than 700 performances, including 100 full-length and 50 children’s plays, the group has actively participated in theatre festivals across India. Despite challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mirror Theatre demonstrated resilience by launching a “Year-Long Drama Festival,” featuring monthly performances ranging from solo acts to collaborations. Their annual “Rang parab” festival and “Indradhanu” (Children’s Theatre Festival) are key events on their calendar. The theatre boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including an open-air stage, library, and resource center, and actively engages the community through its Children’s Theatre Club and regular workshops. Mirror Theatre set a world record by performing the play “KAENJURI” for 49 hours, 48 minutes, and 12 seconds with 218 Actors & 82 Supporting members from December 1-3, 2023, at its own stage in Belpahar.