Sravasti Datta discusses how romantic relationships are a complex concept in human experience. Theatre personality Shatarupa Bhattacharyya attempts to explore this theme in her latest Hindi play, Silvatein, premiering at Ranga Shankara today. The play, translated by Puneet Gupta, showcases Shatarupa's decade-long experience in theatre, where she has worked as an actor, director, and production manager. In Bengaluru, she collaborates with various theatre groups and shares her insights on her creative process, learning experiences in theatre, and reflections on modern relationships. Shatarupa states, "Theatre allows me to engage intellectually and emotionally with issues." She elaborates how theatre provides a unique space for exploring abstract ideas in a tangible manner and how dramatizing relationships has been a cathartic process for her. Through writing, staging, and witnessing Silvatein, Shatarupa finds closure and sparks dialogues that she hopes will inspire others. She believes theatre can facilitate meaningful conversations beyond facts and figures.
Regarding modern relationships, Shatarupa observes that fast-paced lifestyles often hinder emotional connections. Stress and technological distractions contribute to people becoming less patient and emotionally available in relationships. The culture of instant gratification leads to unrealistic expectations of effortless and continuously fulfilling relationships. Shatarupa emphasizes the importance of investing time and effort in cultivating meaningful connections amidst the challenges of contemporary life.The content suggests that instead of facing and resolving problems with energy and determination, many people choose to simply walk away or ignore them as an easier solution in today's fast-paced world. This lack of commitment to facing challenges has led to a lack of deep emotional connections in relationships, with individuals constantly prioritizing external pursuits over fostering meaningful bonds with others. Shatarupa's latest play draws inspiration from her own experiences with failed relationships, emphasizing the significance of self-awareness and open communication in personal well-being and in cultivating healthy connections with others. By acknowledging how her past experiences and assumptions influenced her reactions, Shatarupa was able to approach relationships with more patience, empathy, and a willingness to grow and learn from vulnerabilities and mistakes.