Mahesh Dattani's Final Solution

        'Final Solution by Mahesh Dattani'

This blog task is based on the practical experience which I came across, during my academic studies. We the students of English Department, got an opportunity to study the theatrical techniques a bit closer. My Professors Dr.Dilip Barad sir, organized a workshop which was conducted by Alpa Ponda ma'am, who is the research scholar at our Department and currently is pursuing PhD.

 

So this was a great opportunity for us, as a  students to know about the play and it's emotions too closely and we really did at an extent. The workshop was for about a week and during that time it was divided into sections like first two days we were told to do mono acting then ma'am alloted us to perform a small act which we have to perform within a 30 min. And next she taught us about the tone, the 9 Rasas, profile which is very important during any performance, because there are several rules for that as well, like we can't cross the face of the another character and can't even walk in a particular manner and many such which helps in creating a successful frame.

We also had vachikam at the last days of the workshop which helped in knowing more about the characters and it's situations their circumstances throughout the play. The ma'am crafted us into the character so well that we can feel the situation of the characters, their guilt and every emotions so closely.

How does Mahesh Dattani manipulate time and space within the dramatic framework of Final Solutions to create meaning? Explore the interplay of these elements with specific reference to the stagecraft techniques employed by the playwright.

He chooses topics that are usually never spoken about in society. These topics are always debated in various socials situations and are usually seen to be discussed in his plays and exhibition of the stage is quite efficiently. The stage has all the technicalities which take the play to a different level. According to Mahesh Dattani's writing style, he likes to play with lights, and this has different connotations attached to it, which, when one reads, finds it difficult to imagine. There is a difference between a written play and one that is performed on stage or in a theater. 

His choice of make-up and costume designs are always apt to the theme of the particular play that is going to be performed on the stage. Final Solutions is a play that portrays the religion and gender bias in two different eras and the generation gap that is accompanied . The two eras that are shown are the times when India gained independence only recently and the present day.

Examine the complexity of guilt experienced by the characters in the play. How does this emotion shape their actions and relationships?

There are people like Ramnik who take some stand against intolerance towards the minority and openly dislike conservative mindsets like that of Aruna and Hardika. However, people like Daksha, who actually wanted to befriend people from the Muslim community, were not able to do so, either because of outright condemnation or because of a lack of information about the full situation related to Muslims (Zarine’s father’s sweet shop comes to mind). After her father’s murder by a few Muslims, she becomes hateful to the entire community due to her upbringing and lack of education. So, the bottom line here is that not everyone seeking tolerance was able to get it. Some people had to go through a lot more hardships and guilt as compared to others.

Reflect on your journey through Final Solutions as a student of theatre. How did the process of studying, rehearsing, and performing this play shape your understanding and appreciation of theatre?

Talking about theater, I personally don't have much experience about it in this field but, I have done some of the small parts in short film and a skit but this was the very memorable experience of mine because, during this workshop under the guidance of Apla Ponda ma'am we really get to learn a lot about the rules and regulations of the theatre, we could not have covered all but she taught us to her fullest and we enjoyed learning a lot. 

This workshop was divided into different sessions, like first we did discussion about the basics and then moved further to improving our skills on intonation and then did vachikam which was the very important part of the play, and also learnt that how to go with costumes according to the character and situation. 

Conclusion

The workshop on theatrical techniques provided me an invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in the practical aspects of theater, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Through the structured sessions, I gained a deeper understanding of the complexity involved in performing, from embodying the complex emotions of characters.

The exploration of Mahesh Dattani's "Final Solutions" not only enhanced my appreciation for stagecraft but also illuminated the powerful ways in which theater can address and reflect societal issues, particularly those related to religion, gender, and guilt. This experience has undoubtedly enriched my understanding of theater, equipping you with the skills and insights necessary to approach dramatic works with greater depth and sensitivity.

The link of our video, I'm attaching below. I hope this would be helpful.

Have a wonderful day,

Thank you.

Lab Activity: DH: MIT Moral Machine and CLiC Dickens Project

This blog task is assigned by my professor Dr. Dilip Barad sir. The main motive is to Browse through activity book by CLiC Project of Birmingham University and shall complete at least two 'thematic' activities. The detalied information is provided HERE 

The social importance of the fire-place : 

This activity aims to make connections between textual patterns in the novels and social or cultural behavious and conventions in the real world. As most texts in CLiC were written in the 19th century, we focus on the cultural context of that period. Section 12 above looked at the role of fire in A Christmas Carol and here we focus on a related topic: the so-called ‘fireplace pose’ in 19th century fiction.

This pose has been identified in literature and other cultural material from the time, such as paintings; Barbara Korte describes this in her book on body language (Korte 1997: 212). Mahlberg (2013) has looked at textual patterns of the fireplace pose in Dickens’s novels and finds that the cluster with his back to the fire is particularly frequent.

In Charles Dickens' novels, the fireplace often serves as a stage for characters to perform their masculinity and assert their authority. This is particularly evident in the "fireplace pose," where characters stand with their backs to the fire.

The fireplace pose suggests a sense of dominance and control. Characters adopting this posture often hold positions of power or authority. Turning one's back to the fire implies a disinterest in domestic matters. This suggests a focus on external concerns or professional life.The fireplace can be seen as a symbol of the unconscious, while the turned back might represent a defense mechanism against deeper emotions or desires. Gazing into the fire can suggest a character's avoidance of eye contact with others, possibly indicating discomfort or a desire to remain detached.

The combination of fire and fog in Dickens' novels adds layers of complexity and confusion. Fog often symbolizes uncertainty or misunderstanding, while the fire represents warmth and comfort. Dickens uses the fireplace here to highlight the superficiality and pretense of the window dressing social circle. So even in the other works reflecting similar kind of the demeanour around the fire place. 

The fire-place pose in 19th century literature : 

Dickens often uses the fireplace to symbolize masculinity and authority, other 19th-century authors explored different meanings associated with this domestic feature.

In other 19th-century works, fire symbolizes different meanings. It echoes similar postures reflected in Dickens' work. The characters are in a confused state of mind. In The Small House in Allington by Anthony Trollope, while facing the fire, a character discusses the past and the cold weather of London. This might suggest that the coldness of the past is burdening the present. 

Eliot's portrayal of Grandcourt's discomfort while looking at a female character is a departure from Dickens' characters, who often feel a sense of foreboding in their surroundings. Grandcourt's emotions, including jealousy and contempt, are revealed through his interactions with the fire.

Eliot's portrayal of Grandcourt's discomfort while looking at a female character is a departure from Dickens' characters, who often feel a sense of foreboding in their surroundings. Grandcourt's emotions, including jealousy and contempt, are revealed through his interactions with the fire.

Hardy's use of the fireplace in Jude the Obscure is significantly different from Dickens' portrayal. Jude's feelings of love for Sue are intensified by the presence of the fire, creating a scene that is far removed from the typical Victorian living room setting. This departure from Victorian conventions positions Hardy as an early modernist writer.

Activity 15: Education, women and governesses in the 19th century

A governess was a female tutor who taught children in their homes, often employed by upper-class families to educate their daughters. She was typically expected to be well-educated, accomplished in various arts like music and dance, and possess strong moral character. Governesses were often seen as a status symbol for families, demonstrating their wealth and social standing.

In 19th-century literature, the governess frequently plays a significant role in the story. She often provides insights into the social and cultural norms of the time, as well as the expectations placed on women and the relationship between class and education. By studying the role of the governess in these novels, we can gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the experiences of women during this period.

Through the activity one can do deep research on any concept that belonged in the 19th century. For instance a governance, how the term is described and represented in the novel as well as in the society represented in the 19th that can be learned through the project. One does not have to read the whole text by merely finding the word one can do the research.

The governess mostly looks after a girl child, in the novel Bleak House(Ch- 30) by Charles Dickens there is a reference of a governess who is  very kind to a child and tries to be a friend of them. In many other examples mostly the governess takes care of a girl child rather than a boy child.

It also has a feature that shows how many times the words are used in the work that goes into the in depth analysis of the research work. And for further reading we get the direct reference in the text that saves lots of our time. Through this activity I learnt to find the context of any particular word in the novels or literary work, through this activity and doing everything practically taught me to think in this manner to do any further research work.

Conclusion

The role of the governess in 19th-century literature is another focal point. Governesses, typically well-educated women employed by upper-class families, are portrayed as significant figures who reflect the social and cultural norms of the time, particularly regarding women's roles and education. These characters provide insight into the historical context and the expectations placed on women during that era.

The activity emphasizes the value of analyzing textual patterns in novels to uncover connections between literary elements and the broader social and cultural behaviors of the time. By examining specific concepts, such as the "fireplace pose" or the role of the governess, one can gain a deeper understanding of the 19th-century context without needing to read entire texts. This approach not only facilitates research but also enhances one's ability to engage with and interpret literary works more effectively.

I hope this would be helpful, 

Thank you.

Laughing Buddha by Pravin Gadhvi

This blog task is assigned by our ma'am Prakruti Bhatt, this task includes discussion of the Poem " Laughing Buddha" by Pravin Gadhvi. So let's get into the poem.

To know more you can visit this page

About the Author 

Pravin Gadhavi, born 13 May 1951, is retired  IAS Officer in the Government of Gujarat. A prolific writer, his collections of poetry are Bayonet (1985), Padchhayo (1996) and Tunir (2002). His short story collections are Pratiksha (1995), Antarvyatha (1995) and Surajpankhi. The last publication was given Govt. of Gujarat Award. He has efited ‘Dalit Kavita’ for Gujarat Sahitya Academy and Svakiya (Anthology of Gujarati Dalit Literature for  Gujarat Sahitya Akademy) along with Harish Mangalam, Dalpat Chauhan.

                     Laughing Buddha 

-Buddha Purnima by Praveen Gadhavi

(Full Moon day of Buddha's birthday)

There was an

Underground atomic blast on

Buddha's birthday-a day of

Full Moon

Buddha laughed!

What a proper time!

What an auspicious day!

Buddha laughed!

At whom ?

There was a laughter on his

Lips and tears in his

Eyes

He was dumb that day.

See,

Buddha laughed!

Background of the poem

Since May 18th 1974, India etched its name indelibly into global nuclear energy. A momentous event unfolded in the desert sands of Rajasthan, at the Indian Army's Pokhran Test Range. It was there that India conducted its first successful nuclear bomb test, codenamed "Smiling Buddha". The date was May 18, 1974: Buddha Purnima, the date when Siddhartha Gautama was born 2530 years ago.

Q.1 What should be of a higher moral importance for governing bodies, national security or basic needs of its citizens? What do you think is Gadhvi's opinion about this?

Ans- In discussions about moral priorities for governing bodies, the balance between national security and the basic needs of citizens often becomes the topic for debate. National security is crucial for maintaining a safe and stable environment, while meeting the basic needs of citizens is fundamental for their well-being and dignity. 

In Pravin Gadhvi's poem "Laughing Buddha," Gadhvi critiques the neglect of citizens basic needs in favor of superficial or self-serving nationalistic or security concerns. He uses the Laughing Buddha as a symbol of superficial contentment, contrasting it with the harsh realities faced by ordinary people. Gadhvi's opinion seems to be that addressing the basic needs of citizens should take preference over national security concerns, highlighting the importance of genuine, fundamental care for the people rather than symbolic gestures.

Q.2 In light of Henri Bergson's essay titled "Laughter: An Essay On The Meaning Of The Comic" share your thoughts about the possible interpretations of Buddha's laughter in Gadhvi's poem.

Ans- Henri Bergson's "Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic" explores laughter as a social and philosophical phenomenon, suggesting that the comic is often a result of a mechanical rigidity clashing with the fluidity of life. In this context, Buddha's laughter in Gadhvi's poem can be interpreted through several lenses: Buddha's laughter might symbolize a transcendence of rigid, mechanical ways of thinking and being. It reflects an awareness of the fluid and dynamic nature of existence, contrasting with the fixed and rigid structures that often lead to suffering and misunderstanding.

The laughter could embody a sublime irony, where the enlightened perspective sees the absurdity in human concerns and attachments. This perspective aligns with Bergson's view that laughter often highlights the differences and rigidities in human behavior. Buddha's laughter could also represent a profound understanding of the nature of suffering and the path to liberation. In a more social context, the laughter could critique societal norms and behaviors that are overly rigid or mechanical, reflecting a deeper insight into the nature of human existence and the limitations of societal constructs.


Q.3 The rise and fall of significance of a particular moment in history depends on the narrative that is build around it. Discuss this statement with specific reference to Laughing Buddha. Share your interpretation of the lines: "What a proper time! What an auspicious day!"


Ans- The statement about the rise and fall of significance depending on the narrative is a compelling one, especially when applied to historical figures like the Laughing Buddha, also known as Hotei. Hotei is a figure in Chinese folklore who is often depicted as a jolly, rotund monk with a large belly, symbolizing contentment, abundance, and joy. While he was originally a real person, his historical significance and how he's perceived today are shaped largely by the narratives constructed around him.

The Laughing Buddha was a real monk, recognized for his cheerful disposition and generosity. Over time, his image has become more symbolic, representing happiness and prosperity in various cultures. This shift in how he is viewed from a real person to a symbol of joy, demonstrates how narratives can elevate or transform the significance of a historical figure.

In different cultures, the Laughing Buddha is incorporated into various practices and beliefs. For example, in Chinese culture, he is often associated with good fortune and abundance. The narrative of Hotei's cheerfulness and generosity contributes to his role as a symbol of luck and prosperity. This narrative impacts how people view his significance, his image is celebrated and revered due to the stories that surround him.

The lines "What a proper time! What an auspicious day!" reflect the idea of celebrating a moment as significant based on the narrative created around it. In the context of the Laughing Buddha, these lines could be interpreted as highlighting the importance of recognizing and embracing moments of joy and contentment as significant. They suggest that the value of these moments is not inherent but is given meaning through the stories and celebrations we are attached to them.

The lines evoke the idea that significance is often a product of the narrative we construct. By celebrating a moment with phrases like "What a proper time! What an auspicious day!" we are essentially creating a narrative that enhances the meaning of that moment. 

Conclusion 

The Laughing Buddha's significance has evolved through cultural narratives that emphasize happiness and abundance, thus reinforcing his role as a symbol of these qualities. This perspective highlights how the stories we tell shape our understanding and valuation of both people and events.

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I hope this would be helpful,

Thank you.