In a groundbreaking cultural synthesis, the best of French and Indian theatrical prowess have fused to give birth to an awe-inspiring rendition in the world of drama. ENSATT Lyon of France has joined forces with Adishakti Theatre of Auroville to craft a compelling narrative that skillfully bridges two rich mythologies. “HE-ROSE” is a dramatic exploration that premiered at Alliance Française in Puducherry, which plunges into the quintessence of two storied civilizations seen through the eyes of their legendary heroes.
Penned by the imaginative Nimmy Raphel and with the visionary direction of Vinay Kumar from Adishakti coupled with the assistance of Amaud Guennad from ENSATT, “HE-ROSE” presents the tumultuous lives of two mighty warriors born of myth yet living in the hearts and histories of their people. The character of Arjuna hails from the sacred text of the Bhagavad Gita penned by Veda Vyasa, while Achilles steps out of the pages of Homer’s epic poem, the Iliad. “HE-ROSE” is not merely a play but an exploration of identity celebrated and mourned in the liminal space that separates glory from tragedy.
Arjuna and Achilles, though epochs and oceans apart, share common ground in the tales of their heroism. Each stood as a paragon of combat and valor to his respective people, Arjuna to the Pandavas at Kurukshetra and Achilles to the Greeks at Troy. Their prowess notwithstanding, both heroes harbored initial reservations about joining conflicts that would define their legacies. It was the demise of loved ones — a friend for Achilles and a son for Arjuna — that stirred them into seeking vengeance. Their destinies, however, diverged. Whereas Achilles fell before the culmination of the Trojan War, Arjuna emerged victorious from the battlefield.
With the thunderous rhythms of drums setting a harrowing backdrop, “HE-ROSE” opens amidst the chaos and ruin of war. On stage, the bodies of fallen soldiers and the cries of grieving families lay the foundation for a deeply human and affecting narrative. This cross-cultural foray into theatre leverages the talents of a French actor embodying Arjuna while an Indian thespian takes on the mantle of Achilles, enhancing the performance by highlighting the universal aspects of grief and valor.
The translation of such energy from one culture to another found expression not only through the performance but also in the use of language — English segments were annotated with French subtitles and vice versa. This unique approach allowed for a deeper penetration of the themes, resonating with the diverse audience.
Among the cast, Nimmy Raphel’s depiction of Achilles stood out for its striking diction and physicality. The performance was further enriched by the poignant movements and expressions of Julie Cecchini and Mathilde Briet, leaving an indelible mark on the spectators’ consciousness. Meanwhile, François Landureau’s innovative scenography merged seamlessly with Vinay Kumar’s gripping direction, creating a spellbinding experience for the theatre-goers.
“HE-ROSE” serves crucially as an emotional confluence where the audience is invited to journey through thought and realization. Encapsulating elements of Greek and Indian lore, it offers a mirror to reflect manifold facets of the human condition. After captivating audiences in Puducherry, this vibrant attraction is set to travel, enchanting viewers in cities like Varanasi, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Pune, as well as audiences in neighboring countries.
Thus, “HE-ROSE” stands as a testament to the power of collaborative artistry, transcending geographical boundaries and uniting us in the shared experience of timeless narratives. As both cultures and their heroes converge in the twilight of glory and tragedy, the play promises more than an evening’s entertainment; it offers a profound meditation on life, loss, and the enduring spirit of heroism.
