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MarathiIntermediate

Natsamrat

नटसम्राट

by V. V. Shirwadkar (Kusumagraj)

★★★★★ 5/5 · Poornadnyan rating

The big idea

A great stage actor retires, hands everything to his children, and slowly loses his place in the world – a tragedy about ageing, family and dignity.

Read it if…

Readers who enjoy drama, and anyone thinking about parents, ageing and respect.

Skip it if…

You are not in the mood for a deeply sad story.

Key ideas in 2 minutes

  1. Old age needs dignity, not just care.
  2. Giving everything away can leave you with nothing.
  3. Theatre and life mirror each other.

Our review

One of the greatest Marathi plays, by the Jnanpith-winning poet Kusumagraj. The central character, Ganpatrao Belwalkar, is one of the most powerful roles in Indian theatre.

Reading a play is quick – you can finish it in an evening. Many readers then go on to watch a stage or film version.

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