BP’s ‘Shatru’ story draws attention with folk theatre style
Parshuram Rai, Kathmandu August14, 2026:
Shatru, a play based on a story by renowned Nepali writer Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, is being staged at Pingalasthan, Gaushala, Kathmandu, under the organization of Rangasutra Nepal. The production runs from August 3 to 14, 2026.
Adapted for the stage from Koirala’s story, the play is directed by Ram Bhajan Kamat and Pushparaj Awasthi. The production adopts a folk theatre style, combining literary narrative with traditional performance practices.
One of the most distinctive features of Shatru is its use of folk theatrical craft. The production incorporates Balan, a traditional performance form associated with the Arya community, during scene transitions. Rather than treating scene changes simply as technical intervals, the production integrates Balan into the performance itself, helping maintain continuity and rhythm.
The play is presented within a Hindu ideology, with traditional cultural elements incorporated into its theatrical language. The combination of folk performance, cultural traditions, and stage expression gives the production a distinctive identity.
Direction is one of the play’s major strengths. Kamat and Awasthi have handled the movement of actors, scene transitions, stage activity, and overall rhythm with considerable control. The narrative progresses clearly and effectively, without unnecessary theatrical complexity.
The acting is even more compelling. The actors perform a distinctive quality in their acting, using physical movement, voice, rhythm, gesture, facial expression, and stage presence to develop their characters. Their performances are marked by originality, energy, and creative expression, giving the production much of its theatrical appeal. The cast includes seniour actor Pralhad Kharel, Bipul Thapa, Reshma Bhattarai, Utsab Karki, Raju Raj Puri, Sanjay Chaudhary, Mahesh Khadka, Abhiv Ghimire, Jai Prakash B.K., and Neha Mahara.
The set is constructed by Sahil Sunar and Suraj Gharti Magar, with Mukesh Baraili serving as a volunteer. Sabin Neupane is the chief manager, while Chandra Shekhar Ray serves as stage manager. Prakash Dahal is the chief assistant director and lighting operator. Shri Krishna Shahi is responsible for the stage adaptation and sound control. The lighting and sound design is by Pushparaj Awasthi.
Overall, Shatru stands out for its folk theatre approach, strong direction, distinctive acting, and cultural presentation. The use of Balan during scene transitions and the incorporation of Hindu ideology add a particular character to the production.
By bringing Koirala’s literary story to the stage through folk theatre and traditional cultural forms, Shatru offers an engaging example of how literary narratives can be reinterpreted through contemporary Nepali theatre.
