Mithyasur

Mithyasur is a Hindi theatrical production that examines the influence of myths and stories on human civilisation, exploring the complex relationship between truth, illusion, knowledge, ignorance and authority.

Set in an 18th-century princely state in Hindustan, the story centres on Somdev, a high priest of an ancient temple, and his patron deity, the demon king Kumbh. Through Somdev’s dreams, Kumbh influences the rulers, demands human sacrifices as penance and maintains control through fear and prophecy.

The conflict begins when the demon king suddenly stops appearing in Somdev’s dreams, leaving the priest uncertain about how to guide the state. With the threat of war against the Company government looming, Somdev must confront questions about faith, authority and the future of his kingdom.

His journey brings him into conversation with a royal princess who believes in science, reason and human agency. Their contrasting worldviews explore the tension between traditional beliefs and rational thought, raising questions about how religion and political power can shape society.

Creative Team:

• Writer: Pranay Pandey

• Director: Ajeet Singh Pallawat

• Creative Director, Costume and Art Designer: Ipshita Chakraborty Singh

• Movement Designer: Ammannur Madhav Chakyar

• Music Arrangements: Mohit Agarwal

• Producers: Ujaagar Dramatic Association and Ved Satpathy

Performers: Vijay Patidar, Bhaskar Sharma, Pratiksha Kote, Sahil Ahuja, Shubham Pareek, Abhinay Parmar, Abhinandan Gupta, Swapnil Vikram Gujar, Anishka, Arpit Shashwat and Tia Anainah.

The production offers audiences a thought-provoking theatrical experience that questions the boundaries between mythology and reality, belief and evidence, and devotion and delusion.