Jai Jha in ‘Shakkar Ke Paanch Daane’ | photo credit: special arrangement
It’s back to the stage for theater director Jay Jha as he stars in five grains of sugar, a Hindi monologue written by Manav Kaul. Kissago co-founder Jai hasn’t been acting for the past two years, busy with directing, affairs of amphitheater, an indoor cultural space for theatre, which he co-founded, and a night-shift job. Recently, when he took to the stage during a curtain call, the space felt a bit new. “My first love is acting. That’s why I entered the theater space. I was happy that the passion for acting is still strong.”
story of common man
monologue of manav kaul five grains of sugar Focused on the common man. A simpleton from a small town reminisces about the complex web of relationships and social barriers he faced in his journey through life , About the story Jai says, “He talks about the connect he shares with some of his friends, given a chance to prove himself, he shows off his remarkable personality.”
Hailing from Madhubani, Bihar, Jai felt a connection with the man from a middle-class family. The story, Jai said, has a universal appeal. “No one is perfect but we all have a chance to prove and improve ourselves in every sphere of life. The story moves forward with this thought which is much needed right now.”
The monologue is a conversational one, and he jokes, “Since the focus is on one actor, the stage is all yours. No one can point out your mistakes.”
This January has been special in more ways than one. “I gifted myself my life,” says Jai, who quit his job on January 1. I had joined due to financial constraints during the pandemic, but I was struggling because of the night shift. I needed more time to myself.
His dream of opening an indoor cultural space for theater in Hyderabad came true when Rangbhumi was launched in December 2020. Though it faced challenges due to the pandemic, it is now flourishing with theatre, live performances, workshops and other events. “I am grateful that we have been able to increase footfall for Rangbhoomi. It is great to see the hall packed for the show.
For now, Jai promises more action on stage as an actor.
Kissago Theater Group staged Five Grains of Sugar at Lamakan on 22 January; ₹250 ticket on www.bookmyshow.com