KHANCHE: A New Theatrical Production by Directors Aru Vyas and Swati Vyas

KHANCHE is based on the literary creation Aye zindgi… by Mr. Raghunandan Trivedi. The story follows the main character, Vinayak Acharya, who binds himself in discipline and seriousness so much throughout his life that he loses the pleasures of childhood, youth, and old age. He realizes his unfulfilled desires and precious moments—such as childhood mischief, kite festivals, college days, and spending time with his wife, Khwahish—too late, ultimately dying in confusion.

Directors

Aru Vyas is a graduate in sociology and political science and holds a diploma from the National School of Drama, New Delhi. After graduating, he established the Abhinay Gurukul Cultural Educational Society. He has directed and acted in many plays, conducted theatre workshops across India, and participated in international theatre festivals including the Bharat Rang Mahotsav, North-East Theatre Festival, and SONG Theatre Festival. He served as the Indian representative at the International Theatre Festival in Lincoln Center, New York, and received the 'Natyabhushan' Award in Odisha.

Swati Vyas is a physics graduate from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and a diploma holder in Acting from the National School of Drama. She is a seasoned actor, director, and theatre educator who has worked with groups across India and abroad. She represented India at the International Theatre Festival in Manila, Philippines, in 2006. Her background includes exploring folk traditions such as Parsi theatre, Bhavai, Jatra, and Bidesia, serving as Head of the Department at G.M.I.S. Jakarta, and working as an Assistant Professor of Acting at the Film Institute in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Group

Abhinay Gurukul is the performing wing of the Abhinay Gurukul Cultural Educational Society, which focuses on the sustainable total development of humankind through theatre making, workshops, seminars, and festivals. Recent productions by the group include Kalakaar Ka Jeev, Mujhe Jeene Do, and Macbeth.