Asif Currimbhoy's Theatrical Portrayal of Political Conflicts in Postcolonial India

Abstract

This paper examines the intricate relationship between literature and political conflicts, focusing on the works of Indian playwright Asif Currimbhoy. Through a detailed analysis of Currimbhoy's plays, including "Goa," "Om Mane Padme Hum!," and the Bengal Trilogy, we explore how literature serves as a reflective and critical medium for documenting and interrogating political strife and social upheaval. Currimbhoy's dramaturgy, characterized by its vivid portrayal of historical events, political dilemmas, and the human condition, invites audiences to engage with the complexities of liberation movements, identity politics, and the moral ambiguities of power struggles. By situating Currimbhoy's work within the broader discourse of political theory and postcolonial studies, this paper underscores the transformative potential of theater in fostering critical dialogue and empathy towards the multifaceted impacts of political conflicts on individual lives and collective consciousness.