Jashn-e-Qalam

A Mumbai-based collective, Jashn-e-Qalam is known for its celebration of storytelling in its original form—one where the actors use their voices and bodies to transport the audience to a world sculpted by authors. This August, they take us back to 1947, when suspicion and rumour-mongering turned neighbour against neighbour. Their solo performances of Manto and Abbas’ short stories showcase how the ordinary Indian experienced it. Each story is followed by an informal conversation with the performer, exploring themes from these stories, published in different time, and finding resonance even today.

About the stories:

Sa'adat Hasan Manto's PADHIYE KALMA
Enacted by Rajesh Kumar

In a riot-swallowed city where hate has reared its ugly head, a poor Muslim man is accused of murdering a Hindu. But there’s a twist to what many thought was a communally charged crime—the villain’s confession. A story of lust, deceit and a mystery woman; it may not be an open-and-shut case after all!

Khwaja Ahmed Abbas’s SARDAR JI
Enacted by Vicky Ahuja

A lone Muslim residing in a Hindu-majority area finds himself trapped with his arch-nemesis—a Sikh man—as they both await their destiny. Khwaja Ahmed Abbas’ Sardarji earned him a court case, as well as support from Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Personal and heartfelt, Abbas’ story about the dangers of rumour-mongering possesses a burning relevance even today.

Venue
Multi-Purpose Hall, Sanskriti Kendra,
Anandgram, New Delhi

This evening will include a display of books and posters from Abbas' life & work, courtesy Khwaja Ahmed Abbas Memorial Trust.