A recent performance on 8th July 2023 at Seagull Studio caught my attention. Swapna Dutta Deka wrote the play, titled KOT MOR HEPAHOR DESH, presented by the Guwahati chapter of the Duliajan based Pathar a prominent dramatic group, directed by Chanku Niranjan Nath. A central theme of the play was the issue of brain drain, an important topic in today’s globalized world.
‘KOT MOR HEPAHOR DESH’ explores the mental state of a young Indian individual who aspires to live abroad in search of a better life. It examined the motivations, dilemmas, and aspirations of young people, illustrating their desire for personal growth and economic stability. The play effectively illustrated the challenges facing Indian society as a result of brain drain, where talented individuals leave their home countries in search of employment abroad.
The theme of the play was both interesting and contemporary, shedding light on a subject that is relevant to many young people today. Throughout, the story provided insight into the mindset of Indian youth who are torn between the love of their homeland and the desire to pursue a better future abroad. With its focus on this internal struggle, the play raised thought-provoking questions regarding the impact of brain drain on individuals, families, and society at large.
The play, however, fell short in terms of its presentation despite its compelling theme. There was a major flaw in the excessive use of dramatic elements, which undermined the effectiveness of the principal theme as a whole. Due to the abundance of dramatic elements, the audience may not have been able to fully grasp the significance of the central message.
However, despite this shortcoming, the playwright’s approach and content are commendable. A playwright’s insightful perspective was evident in the exploration of the mental state of the protagonist and the examination of the broader social implications of brain drain. Clearly, Swapna Dutta Deka has a deep understanding of the subject matter and has the ability to translate complex issues into engaging narratives.
The presentation of the play may have hindered its impact, however, the underlying approach and content of the play were noteworthy. As a result of the play’s approach to the issue of brain drain, it shed light on the internal struggles of Indian youth who are aspiring to live a better life abroad. The work of Swapna Dutta Deka holds promise, and I am looking forward to future contributions from this talented playwright.
The team have the potential to create even more compelling and thought-provoking theatrical experiences when they refine their presentation.
