‘Charandas Chor’: A satirical tale on the price of truth (photos)
The play, rich in humor, satire, and a profound social message, entertains audiences while encouraging them to reflect on the realities of society.
KATHMANDU: A regular staging of the timeless play Charandas Chor, written by renowned Indian theatre figure Habib Tanvir, has begun at Mandala Theatre.
The play, rich in humor, satire, and a profound social message, entertains audiences while encouraging them to reflect on the realities of society.
The Nepali adaptation of the play has been translated by theatre artists Rajan Khatiwada and Ashant Sharma.
It presents the story of Charandas, a thief who makes several vows to his guru. Despite facing numerous situations that pressure him to break those promises, Charandas remains steadfast.
As the story unfolds, he ultimately honors his vows—even refusing the opportunity to become a king and choosing death instead.
Blending elements of folk culture with music, songs, and witty dialogue, the production has become a major attraction for theatre audiences.
Through sharp satire, the play raises questions about social contradictions, morality, and the relationship between truth, honesty, and power—issues that remain relevant even today.
The play was previously staged in 2010 at Patan Durbar Square under the direction of Rajan Khatiwada, and again in 2013 at Mandala Theatre in Kathmandu.
It has now returned to the stage with performances by students from Mandala Theatre’s Lab 18th batch.
Directed by theatre artist Milan Karki, the production features Lab 18 students including Bishwo Bijay B.K., Binay Pant, Binita Giri, Anuska Karki, Laxman Khatri, Jitan Rai, Parbata Bhusal, Durga Paudel (Junu), Sarita Nepali, Tek Bahadur Khati, Rijon Theeng Lama, Prabal Joshi, Arman Shahi, Maniraj Ghale, Ojas Lama, Manila Rana Magar, Sankema Rai, Rachana Pandey, Girish Ratna Shakya, Yodish Neupane, Sarfaraz Adhikari, Bharat Budha, and Sakchham Koirala.
The play, which runs for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, will be staged from March 12 to March 25 (Falgun 28 to Chaitra 11), except Mondays.
Regular shows take place every evening at 5:15 PM, with an additional show on Saturdays at 1:15 PM.
-Saroj Basnet
