Sandal Baar: A Tragic Tale of Displacement and Native History in Punjabi Theatre

Sandal Baar explores the tragedy of native populations displaced by the British government in undivided Punjab. Originally living fertile areas between sandalwood forests, the Ravi river, and paddy fields, these tribal people—referred to as 'Janglis'—raised herds of camels, buffaloes, cows, horses, sheep, and goats. The British government displaced them by claiming they lacked proof of land ownership, forever altering their centuries-old peaceful life.

The narrative reflects on how the tragedy of the natives of 'Sandal Bar' highlights the fate of minorities and the ongoing human suffering brought on by civilization and industrialization.

Director

Born on October 7, 1964, in Amritsar, Shri Kewal Dhaliwal is a National School of Drama graduate specializing in design and direction. As the Chairman of the Punjab Sangeet Natak Akademi, he has directed over 150 productions, acted in numerous plays, and designed sets, lighting, and costumes for more than seventy major productions. His work draws inspiration from various poets and visual artists, and he has authored several books for children and adults.

Group

Founded in September 1991 by Kewal Dhaliwal, Manch-Rangmanch is a cultural organization dedicated to social awareness and transformation through theatre. With around forty associated artists, the group has staged nearly 250 plays both in India and internationally across Europe, North America, and South Asia, operating out of its own Rangmanch Bhawan.