Dinesh Thakur's ANK Theatre Marks its 49th Anniversary with a Grand New Production: Sita Banbas!

Image Source: Mindworkz.in

Mumbai, 2025 – As ANK Theatre steps into its 49th year and moves towards its golden jubilee, the group proudly announces its latest production, Sita Banbas. Written in 1928 by the prolific playwright Agha Hashar Kashmiri, the play reimagines one of the most poignant episodes of the Ramayan – Sita’s exile – through a lens that is as relevant today as it was almost a century ago.

Atul Tiwari, who directs the production, calls Sita Banbas “a treat to watch and an experience to shake, shock, stir and jolt us no end.” He explains: “Today, where Lord Ram is in every heart and every agenda, we sometimes forget Sita, though her devotion, dignity and dedication embody the ultimate sacrifice. This play provides a 360-degree view of Ram and Sita’s intricate relationship, while also reminding us of Sita’s courage and wisdom. Staging it today, in the vibrant style inspired by the Parsi Theatre tradition, gives us both spectacle and depth – a theatrical experience that is grand, moving, and thought-provoking.”

For producer and actor Preeta Mathur Thakur, the story is deeply personal and layered: “Ram has always been seen as the ideal son, brother and king. But where was Sita in all this? What was her journey? Through this play, we rediscover Sita as not just a queen denied her rightful place, but as a woman of extraordinary strength, patience and wisdom. She begins a journey of self-discovery and liberation, embodying the ultimate goal of our land – mukti.”

Sita Banbas is brought to life with a large ensemble of over two dozen actors, singers and dancers, rich music, stylised dialogue, and the grandeur of painted curtains, magnificent sets and magical stagecraft. True to Kashmiri’s dramatic writing – often compared to Shakespeare – the play culminates in one of the most powerful climaxes seen on the Indian stage.

Show Schedule:

• 30th September 2025 – Premiere – Prithvi Theatre - 6 pm & 9 pm

• 1st October 2025 – Prithvi Theatre, Juhu  - 6 pm & 9 pm

• 4th October 2025 – Nehru Centre, Worli - 7.30 pm

• 5th October 2025 – Balgandharva Rangmandir, Bandra - 7.30 pm 

• 11th October 2025 – Experimental Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point - 7 pm

  
  

As ANK celebrates its artistic journey and honours the legacy of founder-director Dinesh Thakur, Sita Banbas stands as both a tribute and a bold new chapter in its repertoire.  With its powerful performances, grand staging, and timeless story, don’t miss the chance to witness this rare revival of Agha Hashar Kashmiri’s classic, brought to life with ANK’s signature vision. Step into the world of Sita and Ram, and rediscover a story that continues to resonate today.

Sita Banbas

An Ank Production

Genre: Drama

Language: Hindi

Duration: 2 Hrs 10 Mins (With Interval)

Age Appropriate: 6+ years 

Date: 30th Sept & 1st Oct (Premiere shows)

Time: 6 & 9 PM

Venue: Prithvi Theatre

Tickets on Book My Show

Synopsis: Experience the epic tale of SITA BANBAS from the pages of a century-old masterpiece by prodigious dramatist of erstwhile Parsi Theatre, Agha Hashar Kashmiri, coming to life on stage! This iconic play, a retelling of the Uttar Ramayan, explores the complexities of love, duty, and justice. The pain of Sita's banishment, her search for her liberation and her children's quest for identity and rightful place lead to a most dramatic climax in Ram's Darbar. With live music and dance, painted curtains and magnificent props, ANK Theatre Group presents a fresh take on this Theatre classic, blending elements of Parsi drama with a modern twist. A theatrical extravaganza, designed and directed by Atul Tiwari, music by Amod Bhatt and produced by Preeta Mathur-Thakur, this play promises to shake, stir, and jolt you forever!

---

Rasaaurdrama.com preview section is your best, most complete guide for all the theatre/films, big and small, coming your way soon. Happy Reading! Follow our channel here.

For play listings email: rasaaurdrama@gmail.com  

For Collaborations: DM us at RAD_TIMES_NETWORK (Instagram)  

For Theatre Tours: Ping us on chat at www.rasaaurdrama.com