Comedic take on ‘Baahubali’ sets new record in Lahore's theatre history

Naseem Vicky’s adaptation broke all records by earning Rs6.5 mn on Eid holidays

LAHORE: It looks like there is just no stopping Baahubali.

After smashing multiple records at the global box office, the hit Bollywood mythical drama has taken Lahore’s theatre industry by storm, becoming one of its most successful plays over the recent Eid holidays. According to the administration at Tamasil Theatre, the play – written and directed by Naseem Vicky – has managed to earn about Rs6.5 million since its opening, thereby doubling the theatre’s earnings over the previous year.

Baahubali the play was performed on two stages with a revolving set which was specifically designed according to the demands of a war epic. The storyline depicts the life of a mythical prince and his quest for love and power, delivering a message of justice and truth.

PHOTO:FILE

While Alfalah Theatre, Alhamrah Hall, Naz Theatre, Bari Theatre and Mehfil Theatre, all presented new content, it was Baahubali that took the cake.

According to viewers, the play offered a unique new experienceby depicting the story of Baahubali 2 in a comedic manner, with a touch of seriousness and well-suited music. Popular actors like Nasir Chinioti, Amanullah, Qaiser Piya, Sobia Khan, Bina Sehar, Nisha Bhatti, Nigar Chaudhary, Tahir Anjum, Ghulfam and Mahak Noor are all part of the cast and the play will be running for the next two weeks.



“I’m playing the role of the Queen who also happens to be the mother of Baahubali, played by Naseem Vicky himself,” Bina told The Express Tribune. “It feels great that our hard work is paying off and our play has broken such a great record. And the best part is that it isn’t just regular theatre lovers who are coming to watch it, but families and youngsters too. Hopefully, our lucky streak will continue over the next two weeks.”

Director Naseem was full of praises for his magnum opus and said he tried his best to deliver “beautiful entertainment” and follow up on his previous offering: an adaptation of Aamir Khan’s mega hit Dangal. “I am trying new things in terms of direction, acting and script-writing and chose to adapt Baahubali 2 because it was breaking all film records around the world,” he revealed. “Theatre is going through a difficult time these days and we need to restore people’s confidence in this medium. We need to attract more people to it. They hadn’t been coming of late due to various issues which I don’t want to recall right now but in the future, we will continue to show the best plays to the public.”

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