Mahadevbhai Play Returns to Pune: Jaimini Pathak’s Powerful Performance Highlights Gandhi’s Ideals
Mahadevbhai Play Returns to Pune: Jaimini Pathak's Powerful Performance Highlights Gandhi's Ideals
When Jaimini Pathak took on the challenge of portraying more than 35 characters in the play Mahadevbhai back in 2002, he could never have predicted that its themes would become even more relevant over the next two decades. “I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or not, as Gandhi discussed many issues he hoped Indian society would embrace,” Pathak reflects.
Gandhi advocated for the elimination of untouchability, communal harmony, women’s empowerment, and economic self-reliance. He emphasized decentralization, strengthening villages, and promoting local economies. However, Pathak questions the current relevance of these ideals, particularly regarding women’s status in society.
Mahadevbhai to be Staged in Pune on February 9
On February 9, 2025, Pathak will perform Mahadevbhai at Shreeram Lagoo Rang-Avakash on Tilak Road, Pune, organized by Spotlight Forum. “I believe in continuing to do what I am passionate about. The play has its own purpose and impact,” Pathak adds.
Mahadevbhai, written by Ramu Ramanathan, is based on the diaries of Mahadev Desai, who was Gandhi’s personal secretary, a scholar, and a freedom fighter. The play explores Gandhi’s legacy through Desai’s meticulous records, presenting a deeply personal insight into the Mahatma’s life.
A Memorable Encounter: Narayan Desai’s Praise for the Play
Pathak recalls a remarkable moment when Narayan Desai, son of Mahadev Desai, unexpectedly attended a performance in Gujarat. After watching the play, he told Pathak, “There is no myth in the play and there is no mithya in the play.” He further emphasized that Mahadev Desai was the key to understanding Gandhi’s essence. According to historical records, Desai was always by Gandhi’s side, waking up an hour before him and retiring an hour later, ensuring that every detail of Gandhi’s life was documented.
Pathak’s Personal Connection to Gandhi’s Legacy
A Mumbai-based actor, Pathak has his own distant personal connection to Mahatma Gandhi. The play follows a young actor struggling to make a name for himself, who realizes he is only six degrees of separation from Gandhi. Both Pathak’s grandfather and granduncle worked with Gandhi and were friends with Mahadev Desai. Interestingly, Pathak’s granduncle was also a lawyer, just like Mahadev Desai, and practiced law in Mumbai.
Pathak explains that playwright Ramu Ramanathan used this connection as a narrative hook to weave a story spanning different timelines. He notes that many people from the freedom struggle generation share stories about knowing Gandhi or being part of the movement, making these historical connections even more significant.
Honoring the Unsung Heroes of the Freedom Struggle
The play Mahadevbhai sheds light on the rank and file of India’s independence movement, focusing on the unsung heroes often overlooked in history books. Pathak asserts that Mahadev Desai represents these unknown participants who played a crucial role in India’s freedom, arguing that without them, the movement would not have succeeded.
With its historical depth, compelling storytelling, and powerful performance, Mahadevbhai continues to captivate audiences, making its return to Pune a must-watch event for theater lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
