Malati Madhavam: An Overview of the Sanskrit Play and Production

Malati Madhavam

Malati–Madhava is a celebrated Sanskrit play by Bhavabhuti, rich in Shringara (romantic sentiment) and Karuna (pathos), portraying intense emotions and the conflict between love and social obligation. Set in Padmavati, the capital of Vidarbha, the story begins with a promise made by two Brahmins, Bhurivasu and Devarata, to arrange the marriage of their children. Malati, the graceful and intelligent princess, and Madhava, a learned and idealistic Brahmin youth who arrives in the city for higher studies with his friend Makaranda, fall in love at first sight.

Malati’s father and minister Bhurivasu arranges her marriage to Nandana instead, disregarding her feelings. Their love is tested through separation, danger, abduction, and emotional suffering, but courage, friendship, and steadfast love ultimately triumph.

Playwright

Malatimadhava was written by Bhavabhuti, an 8th-century CE Sanskrit dramatist educated in Kashi. Celebrated as the poet of rasa, especially shringara and karuna, his major works include Malti Madhav, Mahaviracharita, and Uttara-Ramacharita.

Director

Vivek Emmaneni, an alumnus of the National School of Drama, directed the production. His background includes theatre experience with his father’s group “kalaaranjani,” Kuchipudi training, master's degrees in Organic Chemistry and Communication & Journalism, work in the Telugu Film Industry as an Associate Director and script writer, and a Master of Performing Arts from Telugu University. He has also worked as a professional artist at the National School of Drama Repertory Company, completed a fellowship research project titled “Exploring Stillness,” and served as an Assistant Professor of Acting at Ramanaidu Film School in Hyderabad.

Director’s Note

Director Vivek Emmaneni notes that the production explores themes of duty, loyalty, societal expectations, the abuse of power, and the silencing of voices. The production highlights characters such as Kamandaki, a wise and compassionate nun supporting Malati and Madhav's love, while taking creative liberties to explore the themes in a contemporary context.

Group

The National School of Drama, Varanasi Centre, established in 2018, offers a one-year training course in Indian classical theatre and dramaturgy.