Author: Dr. Suprita Jha

Abstract: The development of modern theatre in India may be attributed to a change in the political set up in India. Post-Independence Indian theatre and drama got a new footing with the new found cultural confidence. The year 1972 turned out to be a landmark for the Indian vernacular theatre when Vijay Tendulkar’s Marathi play ‘GHASHIRAM KOTWAL’ made waves by its brilliant use of traditional folk forms in modern contemporary theatre. ‘GHASHIRAM KOTWAL’ has been in the controversy since its very inception. It was staged in 1972 but soon it was banned for its anti-Brahmin stance and the distortion of facts about great historical figure who played a key role in Maratha polity. The play reveals how the state is ruled by a defunct descendent of glorious Shivaji. The ruler is Peshwa but he is governing the state through his chancellor, Nana Phadnavis, who is cunning and crafty and knows no scruples. The people under his rule groan for want of freedom in speech and movement and honourable way of living. Ghashiram Kotwal grows up under the patronage of such a lecherous crafty man. He is ruthless and tyrant and prosecutes all-innocent as well as defaulters. Actually, Ghashiram Kotwal was harshly treated on his arrival to Poona with the intention of getting suitable employment to support his family and so, the spirit of vindictiveness never leaves him. Undoubtedly, ‘GHASHIRAM KOTWAL’ is a biting satire on contemporary society, police administration and power politics. It portrays the falling standards, degradation of society, the mannerism as well as the conduct of the citizens. The paper I propose to write brings forth this issue of corruption that is running rampant on all levels in this play and the police administration is no exception. As a matter of fact, the dramatist, Vijay Tendulkar, has brought under his focus the political and police administrations and their faulty ways of working as it is today or may be an extension of the yesteryears.

Keywords: Theatre, British Rule, Satire, Political, Brahmins, Peshwa, Corruption, Society, Pioneer, Kotwal, Socio-Political force

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.3.5.38