MANGALURU: Noted Tulu theatre director Vijayakumar Kodialbail and his Kalasangama troupe are set to enthral audiences in Mumbai with their acclaimed Tulu play ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji’, a dramatic retelling of the valour and legacy of the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The inaugural performance in Maharashtra will take place at the Kurla Bunts Sangha auditorium on November 20, marking a significant milestone for the troupe.
A 10-show tour across Maharashtra
Following the inaugural performance, the troupe will stage 10 shows across Maharashtra at Thane, Mira Road, Pune, Pavel, Vashi, Santacruz, Nalasopara, and Chembur, concluding the tour on November 30. The 32-member team of artistes and technicians will leave Mangaluru on November 19 to embark on this cultural journey.
Vijayakumar Kodialbail said the play has already garnered remarkable success, with 76 shows completed across different regions prior to this tour. “We are performing ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji’ in Maharashtra for the first time. The response has been overwhelming, and we already have over 80 bookings after the Mumbai tour,” he added.
A cinematic portrayal of a patriotic ruler
The historical play brings to life the heroic story of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire and a revered symbol of courage and governance. The narrative, adapted into Tulu from a research work by Shashiraj Kavoor, showcases Shivaji’s administrative acumen, devotion to justice, and commitment to protecting cultural and religious values.
“The ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji’ play is a unique effort to present the patriotic ruler’s life through theatre in a cinematic way,” said Vijayakumar. “We took great care to ensure that the 150-minute production remains true to real life and historical authenticity.”
The play features young actor Preethesh Kumar Ballalbagh in the titular role, bringing energy and intensity to the character of Shivaji Maharaj. Music for the play is composed by Manikanth Kadri and A.K. Vijaya Kokila, enhancing the grandeur and emotion of the historical narrative.
From Kateel to Mumbai: A growing legacy
The Tulu adaptation premiered in Kateel on March 6 and has since earned widespread appreciation for its storytelling, visual design, and musical depth. The play highlights not only Shivaji’s bravery on the battlefield but also his role as a visionary ruler who built an enduring legacy.
Many devotees revere Shivaji Maharaj as a divine figure, acknowledging his role in defending faith and culture. Vijayakumar’s artistic adaptation weaves these sentiments into a cohesive, theatrical experience that blends patriotism, history, and devotion.
Kalasangama’s continuing success
The Kalasangama troupe, founded by Vijayakumar Kodialbail, has a long history of delivering successful Tulu theatre productions. The director is best known for his previous play, ‘Shivadoothe Gulige’, which achieved record-breaking success with over 760 performances in India and abroad.
As part of the Mumbai tour, the troupe will also stage ‘Shivadoothe Gulige’ on the final day, bringing their celebrated production back to the stage for local audiences.
With ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji’, Vijayakumar once again showcases the power of regional theatre in narrating national legends. The play is not just a historical drama, but a tribute to the spirit of unity, pride, and resilience that continues to inspire generations.