Gaj Foot Inch: Comedy That Falls Short of Its Full Potential

Shimla Jan 03 Ritanjali Hastir
Staged at the historic Gaiety Theatre, ‘Gaj Foot Inch’ ; as part of the on going winter carnival celebration; unfolded as a comedy centered around a business family, led by Pokharmal, a cloth merchant. The narrative, filled with humor and life lessons, explored themes of family expectations, romance, and personal growth.

The story revolved around Tillu, portrayed brilliantly by Sohan Kapoor. Tillu, a shrewd businessman fixated on profits and revenues, displayed a striking naivety in matters of romance, much to the dismay of his parents. The plot took a delightful turn with the arrival of Jugni, a refined and educated woman, whom his parents hoped would change Tillu’s perspective. The play followed his amusing yet heartfelt attempts to win Jugni’s affection, realizing along the way that life holds more than mere monetary gains.

However, the production fell short of its potential. Director Sanjay Sood, who also played the father, struggled to balance his dual responsibilities, resulting in a somewhat unfocused execution. The lack of natural background music during the park scene—a pivotal moment—left the scene feeling incomplete, akin to a stage rehearsal. Such enhancements could have added depth and ambiance, enriching the audience’s experience.

Despite its flaws, the strong performances, especially by Sohan Kapoor, kept the audience entertained. With better direction and attention to finer details, ‘Gaj Foot Inch’ could have been an exceptional theatrical presentation.