Ghasiram Kotwal: A Grand Musical Exploration of Power and Corruption

About Ghasiram Kotwal

Ghasiram Kotwal by Vijay Tendulkar is a political satire that uses historical context to critique contemporary issues of power, corruption, and social injustice. Set in 18th-century Pune under Peshwa rule, the play follows the rise and fall of Ghasiram. After being ill-treated by the people of Pune, Ghasiram barters his daughter Lalita Gauri to secure the post of Kotwal from Nana Phadnavis. Ghasiram enforces strict rules, but the situation escalates when visitors die in custody, leading the Brahmins to complain to the Peshwa. Nana uses Ghasiram as a pawn and discards him in the end.

Writer

Vijay Tendulkar (1928 – 2008) was an Indian playwright, writer, literary essayist, political journalist, and social commentator who wrote primarily in Marathi. His notable works include Shantata! Court Chalu Aahe (1967), Ghashiram Kotwal (1972), and Sakharam Binder (1972). He received awards such as the Padma Bhushan, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, and the National Film Award for Best Screenplay.

Translator

Prof. Vasant Deo (1929–1996) was an Indian writer, lyricist, screenwriter, and Hindi academic who worked on translations from Marathi to Hindi, including Sanskrit hymns for the television serial Bharat Ek Khoj. He received the National Film Award for Best Lyrics and the Filmfare Award for Best Lyricist.

Directors and Artistic Approach

Directed by Abhijit Panse and Bhalchandra Kubal, the production is presented as a grand musical exploring power, politics, and moral decay during the Peshwa era. The artistic approach preserves the play's musical and folk roots, featuring traditional dances such as Lavani, kirtan, and Qawwali, with music composed by Mandar Deshpande. The visual design draws inspiration from Shaniwarwada and a chessboard with pawns.

Production Group

Ravan Future Productions Pvt Ltd stages productions utilizing innovative staging, music, and folk dance.