Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) has staged the acclaimed Dogri play “Pension” here at Abhinav Theatre as part of its weekly theatre series “Saptahik Rangdhara”.
Written by Padma Shri Awardee, Mohan Singh and directed by eminent theatre personality Usha Slathia, the play received an enthusiastic response from the audience.
The play presents a sensitive and thought-provoking portrayal of a middle-class family through its central character Mohan Lal Choudhary, who is on the brink of retirement.
As he approaches this significant transition, his family members—including his wife, two sons, two daughters-in-law, a married elder sister, and a close friend—become increasingly focused on the pensionary benefits he is expected to receive.
Through realistic situations, nuanced dialogues and a blend of humour and emotional depth, the play effectively highlights the changing dynamics of family relationships.
While the sons are depicted as frequently at odds with each other, the daughters-in-law emerge as mature and understanding figures who strive to preserve harmony within the household. The narrative takes an engaging turn when a distressed Mohan Lal shares his concerns with his friend Chandu Lal Choudhary, even contemplating an escape from family pressures. Ultimately, emotional bonding and mutual understanding prevail, reinforcing the play’s core message of family values, patience and unity.
The cast delivered commendable performances with Ravikant Sharma as Mohan Lal Choudhary, Usha Slathia as Lazya Devi, Ajit Singh as Chandu Lal Choudhary, Bhupinder Singh Jamwal, Vikas Sharma, Sunita Atri, Meenu Slathia and Preeti Rajput in key roles.
The technical team, including Pranav Bagal (set design), Meenu Slathia (make-up), Chavi Rajput (costumes), Shashi Bhushan Sharma (light and sound), Ishu and Ishan Dogra (music), played a vital role in the production’s success.
At the conclusion, Additional Secretary JKAACL, Lal Chand felicitated the theatre group with a memento in presence of the Assistant Cultural Officer, Anil Tickoo, who lauded the artists and backstage team for their dedicated efforts.DD