Gandhi’s Mock Trial “Hatya Ek Aakar Ki” Staged At Gaiety
2 min readShimla, June 11 (Ritanjali Hastir)
“Hatya Ek Aakar Ki” is a mock trial of Mahatma Gandhi before his assassination, created and performed by “Three Arts Club” under the able direction of M.K. Raina; a well-known theatre luminary who has been working in the field of theatre for the last four decades, innovating, studying, analyzing, writing and teaching.
The play explores the events leading up to Gandhi’s assassination and the ideologies and motives behind it. A thought-provoking narrative that delves into the complex issues surrounding Gandhi’s life and his impact on Indian society. The play takes a unique approach by presenting a hypothetical trial, which allows the audience to witness a courtroom drama where Gandhi is put on trial for his beliefs and actions.
The performance raises important questions about Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence, his views on religion, and his stance on communal harmony. It examines the criticisms and controversies surrounding him, including his support for the Khilafat movement and his relationship with certain political leaders. The play also addresses the prevailing tensions between different religious communities during that time and how these factors contributed to the tragic event of Gandhi’s assassination.
“Hatya Ek Aakar Ki” is a powerful and thought-provoking production that challenges the audience to critically examine the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. It forces viewers to confront the complexities and contradictions inherent in any historical figure, especially one as influential and revered as Gandhi. The play provides a platform for dialogue and reflection on the ideals of peace, nonviolence, and social justice that Gandhi championed.