A Pakistani theatre group has been grabbing the headlines for staging an adaptation of the Hindu epic, Ramayana, in Karachi city of Pakistan's Sindh province, reported PTI.
The adaptation of Ramayana was staged by Pakistani drama group Mauj, at the Karachi Arts Council over the weekend. The drama group has received overwhelming response for their efforts to bring the epic to life by enhancing it with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The timeless tale was brought to life on stage by director Yogeshwar Karera, who has adapted it to Urdu. He said he never felt that staging the Ramayana would lead to people disliking him or facing any threats.
"To me, bringing the Ramayana to life on stage is a visual treat and shows the Pakistani society is more tolerant than it is often given credit for," he said.
Karera said that it had been well received, with many critics praising the efforts put into the production and the actors' performance.
Art and film critic Omair Alavi said he was impressed by the honesty in the storytelling, and how the lighting, live music, colourful costumes, and evocative designs added to the grandeur of the show.
"The narrative is top class as the Ramayana is a story that resonates with millions around the world."
Producer Raana Kazmi, who plays Sita, said she was attracted by the idea of presenting the ancient tale as a living, breathing theatrical experience for audiences.
The magnum opus features stellar cast including Aamir Ali, Samhan Ghazi, Ashmal Lalwany, Waqas Akhtar, Jibran Khan, Sana Toaha, Raana Kazmi, Ali Sher.
