Aaina (The Mirror) is a living folktale – part myth, part comedy, yet deeply touching. Set in the Satpuda ranges of Khandesh, it follows a carefree family – mother, father, son, and daughter – whose life is simple, untouched by modernity. No electricity, no mobiles just forests, rivers, hills, and the warmth of togetherness. One day, some strange, amusing objects enter their home, including a mirror that changes everything. Seeing their reflections for the first time, the family is startled, puzzled, amused, and even scared, sparking a playful, innocent chaos. Through this mirror unfolds a story of relationships, self-discovery, and the simple joys of life, human connection, curiosity, and the magic of self-discovery.

Writer

Yogesh Manohar Bhandari is an artist & playwright having over 20 years of experience in theatre and film. Having done extensive work in experimental theatre, Yogesh is a versatile figure in contemporary Marathi drama known for playwriting, direction, adaptation, and dramatization in regional dialects.

Director

Bhalchandra Pandit, a renowned Theatre Director & Writer, has over 30 years of experience in experimental theatre. His notable work Edijs Live Show won the Best One-Act Play at the prestigious Sawai Ekankika Competition. His other significant projects include Escalar, Eka Shevatchi Suruvat, Nadi Katchcha Prakar, To Samorcha Nadkarni, Salaam, Abraham Linknach Patra, Goshta Isbanitichi, and In Search Of.

Director’s Note

Aaina is a living folktale brought to life on stage, blending humour, wonder, and heartwarming emotion. Set in the Satpuda mountains of Khandesh, it follows an innocent family and their reactions – laughter, fear, and delight – reveal universal themes of self-discovery and relationships. How these characters evolve when subjected to influence from external objects, i.e. the materialistic world. Each character’s warmth, innocence, and distinct personality must shine through expressive dialogue and physicality. The rustic Marathi-Ahirani language, authentic props, and naturalistic set evoke simplicity, while the mirror adds a touch of magic. Lighting and sound enhance the contrast between ordinary life and magical moments. This play celebrates curiosity, family, and the small joys of life, reminding the audience that wonder exists in the everyday.

Group  

Jagar: An Awakening of the Stage, for the past 48 years, has been creating meaningful, experimental, and thought-provoking theatre deeply rooted in contemporary social realities. The group has presented works of renowned playwrights such as Vijay Tendulkar, Girish Karnad, Sai Paranjpe, P. L. Deshpande, Kusumagraj, Mohan Rakesh, Badal Sircar, Harold Pinter, and Albert Camus. The group has won prestigious awards including Sawai Karandak, Amrut Kumbh, and Natya Darpan amongst many. It has performed at leading platforms like NSD, Bharat Bhavan, Nandikar, NCPA, and Goa Kala Academy. With ‘Prasang Natya Darshan’ Jagar also nurtures children’s theatre.