Arko Euta Dronacharya is a compelling exploration of power, authority, and morality, centred around the figure of Dronacharya, the famed teacher from the Mahabharata. It is a Nepali adaptation of Dr. Shanker Shesh’s play “Ek Aur Dronacharya.” The play examines the ethical dilemmas faced by those in positions of power and authority, questioning the lines between duty, loyalty, and personal conscience. In the context of Nepal, the play is highly relevant as the country has faced political instability and challenges related to leadership, corruption, and governance. Just like Dronacharya, Nepalese leaders are often confronted with difficult decisions that impact society. The play serves as a reflection on the moral responsibilities of leaders and the consequences of their actions, making it a timely commentary on Nepal’s political and social struggles.

Director’s Note

As a director, my goal is to make the audience think about the way we see teachers and leaders in our own lives— be it a school teacher, a boss, or even a parent. What happens when someone in charge gets too focused on their own rules, traditions, or sense of duty? How does this affect the people who look up to them? I want the stage to feel simple yet powerful because I want the focus to be on the characters and their struggles. The lighting will change throughout the play to show the shifting moods and conflicts between the professor and his students, reflecting moments of understanding or change. The central theme of the play revolves around the idea of “Guruship” – what it means to be a teacher, to wield influence over young minds, and to shape the future of those who look up to you. Dronacharya, in this context, is not just a character from the Mahabharata but a representation of all those who hold power through knowledge and wisdom. His relationships with his disciples, especially with his most famous pupil, Chandu in this play, will be portrayed with layers of complexity: admiration, resentment, dependence, and rebellion.

Group:

Kosha Arts Theatre is a theatre group based in Kathmandu and consists of artists from diverse school of arts. This theatre has previously successfully staged a play titled Munmun whose story was inspired from the highly acclaimed novel “Phirphire” written by writer and poet Buddhi Sagar.