It is not everyday that people get to relive bygone times. But here is a good news for Delhiites who will get to experience the life and times of Chhatrapati Shivaji at Red Fort. 'Raja Shivchhatrapati' will be a live show that will be performed from April 6-10. In this, over 250 actors will take the centre stage to evoke nostalgia. For the show, a four-storey stage has been specially designed to accommodate real elephants, camels and horses, along with the actors.
Minister of Culture Mahesh Sharma said that such a presentation will familiarise people about Shivaji's bravery. "The show is a way to ensure that life and times of Chhatrapati Shivaji can be presented for the youth of this country. This way they will learn about his role in building a nation."
Originally written by veteran historian Shiv Shahir Babasaheb Purandare in Marathi, the play was translated in Hindi. Raja Shivchhatrapati has already mesmerised audiences across the world in English, Hindi and Marathi. It has been shown over 1,200 times in India as well as in the US and England. In fact, it is recognised as the first mega event of Asia and second in the world.
“He is the hero of the entire country, he should be known in every part of the country. However, there is very little information about Shivaji in school books. We will try to show his immense personality through drama. I wish to showcase the play in every language—be it Telugu, Bengali, Gujarati, Tamil and other regional languages," says Purandare.
Though entry is free, it is mandatory for viewers to get themselves registered online through BookMyShow. Clarifies Vinay Sahastrabuddhe, Chaiman, ICCR, who was also the guest of honour: "This enrolment has been done in order to tackle overcrowding and to ensure that only key enthusiasts witness the performance. Through online registration, a ticket number will be issued to every individual and on that basis, the entry will be permitted."