Rediscovering Sita: A Journey Through
A New Era for ANK Theatre
Mumbai, 2025 – As ANK Theatre steps into its 49th year, we are excited to announce our latest production, Sita Banbas. This play, written in 1928 by the renowned playwright Agha Hashar Kashmiri, reimagines one of the most poignant episodes of the Ramayana—Sita’s exile. The themes explored in this production resonate deeply with contemporary audiences, making it as relevant today as it was almost a century ago.
Atul Tiwari, our director, describes Sita Banbas as “a treat to watch and an experience to shake, shock, stir, and jolt us no end.” He elaborates, “Today, where Lord Ram is in every heart and every agenda, we sometimes forget Sita. Her devotion, dignity, and dedication embody the ultimate sacrifice. This play provides a 360-degree view of Ram and Sita’s intricate relationship, reminding us of Sita’s courage and wisdom. Staging it today, in a vibrant style inspired by the Parsi Theatre tradition, gives us both spectacle and depth—a theatrical experience that is grand, moving, and thought-provoking.”
The Heart of the Story
For producer and actor Preeta Mathur Thakur, the story is deeply personal and layered. She states, “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.”
A Grand Production
Sita Banbas comes to life with a large ensemble of over two dozen actors, singers, and dancers. The production features rich music, stylized 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
A Tribute to Legacy
As ANK celebrates its artistic journey, we honor the legacy of founder-director Dinesh Thakur. Sita Banbas stands as both a tribute and a bold new chapter in our repertoire. With powerful performances, grand staging, and a 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.
About the Production
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 the prodigious dramatist of erstwhile Parsi Theatre, Agha Hashar Kashmiri, coming to life on stage! This iconic play, a retelling of the Uttar Ramayana, explores the complexities of love, duty, and justice. The pain of Sita's banishment, her search for liberation, and her children's quest for identity lead to a 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. Designed and directed by Atul Tiwari, with music by Amod Bhatt and produced by Preeta Mathur-Thakur, this play promises to shake, stir, and jolt you forever!
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