Haravlele Pratibimb (Lost Reflection) is a Marathi adaptation of Mahesh Elkunchwar’s Pratibimb. This play has been done and redone a couple of times earlier, however this version has been done in a drastically different stlye. Haravlele Pratibimb is directed by Chetan Datar (one of the most accomplished directors in Marathi experimental theatre). He has collaborated with classical dancers Rajree Shirke and Vaibhav Arekar to bring to us this visual treat he calls “Rang Nritya”.
His play differs from the traditional dance-dramas. Traditionally, dance-dramas would involve a series of dance perfomances interluded with dialogues or commentary to which the artists would act on or lip-sync to. However in Haravlele Pratibimb a lot of issues are expressed through dance itself, for example the turmoil of the protagonist. Also the dancers themselves also express through words. Dance basically supplements the words and expresses intense emotions where words seem to be less efficient.
This play is about a man, a paying guest at an elder lady’s house. He wakes up one morning to find out that he cannot see his reflection(pratibimb) in the mirror. So, in a gist it deals with issues of self and identity. The play is a reflection of our identity-less life in a huge metropolis like mumbai.
The dances were all very crisp and beautifully choreographed. As a dancer myself, I could understand the movements and bolas better. But it was as appreciated by the others present as well. Personally I loved the part where the house-owner enters his mind (man). There is a traditional Javali (type of dance) used - Yera Ra Ra. Its a song where the heroine is calling her beloved to come meet her. Its hillariously presented. Also the scene where the house owner cant see her own reflection is very strong.
The music complements the dance movements and the lighting gives it a more intense feel. Overall it was a complete visual treat, an extemely satifying experience. Its a must watch!
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