Godan, considered Premchand’s masterpiece, highlights the struggle between the peasant and the money-lender backed by oppressive forces. Hori Mahato’s family, representing rural peasants, includes his wife Dhania, daughters Rupa and Sona, son Gobar, and daughter-in-law Jhunia. It commences with Hori’s aspiration to own a cow, a symbol of hope for the impoverished. After purchasing one on debt, it sparks a family conflict. Jealousy drives his younger brother to poison the cow. Hori takes a loan to clear his brother’s name when he is blamed. Gobar elopes with Jhunia, further complicating matters. Hori’s unwavering integrity leads to a debt of Rs. 200. But his determination to pay back and to have a cow to provide milk to his grand son, leads to Hori’s death due to excessive work. When he is about to die, his wife Dhania takes out all the money she has, Rs. 1.25 only, and makes Hori pay the priest as Godan. This eventually fulfils the dream of Hori but still his desire to pay back the debt and to have cow remain unfulfilled.

Director 

Sartaj Narayan Mathur, a senior theatre practitioner, has been regularly doing theatre since 1962. He has directed more than 100 plays. He is A-grade artist of Akashvani and has been the theatre director of Jawahar Kala Kendra. For his contributions in the field of theatre, he has been awarded the Amrit Award by the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Director’s Note

Godan is a timeless classic, and I believe that by working with young and enthusiastic actors, we can breathe new life into this story. I believe that by collaborating with emerging talent, we can bring a unique energy and vitality to the production that will captivate our audience