Laila Majnu: A Retelling of the Classic Tale in Theatre

The story of Laila Majnun is retold as a narrative poem and a play, tracing the lives of two young people in the nomadic Bedu society of the early 7th century A.D. in the Middle East. After her family believes the love between Qais and Laila brings shame, Laila is kept at home. Qais runs into the wilderness and becomes known as Majnun. Laila is later married to Ibn Salem, and following his death and a two-year mourning period, she journeys to find Qais, only to realize the one she loved is lost.

Playwright: Ismail Choonara

Ismail Choonara was a playwright, poet, essayist, and painter born in South Africa who lived most of his life in the U.K. His major works include 'Laila Majnu', 'A River Across Unseen Divide' (Urdu version Yaadon ke Bujhe Huye Savere), 'A Broken Chair', and 'Compartment No. C-35'. Choonara passed away in London in 2021.

Director: Prof. Ram Gopal Bajaj

Prof. Ram Gopal Bajaj, born in Darbhanga, Bihar, is a theatre artist who graduated from the National School of Drama in 1965 and served as its Director from 1995 to 2001. His acting and directing credits include numerous plays and media works. He has received awards such as the Padmashree, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Nandikar Samman, National Kalidas Samman, and the Ratna Sadasyta of Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2016.

Regarding the production, the director notes the heavy emphasis on body movement and actor blocking as part of the compositions. Rajesh created the music, incorporating original compositions, sound additions, and pieces by Abida Parveen and Sabri Brothers.

Translator: Sabir Irshad Usmani

Sabir Irshad Usmani translated Ismail Choonara's plays 'Yaadon ke bujhe huye savere' and 'Laila Majnun'. His literary contributions include articles for Kitab Numa and works related to Khusro and Moulana Mohd. Ali Johar.

Rangamandal Company

Established in 1964 with four members, Rangamandal Company serves as the regular performing wing of the school, focusing on commercial theater and experimental work.