Sravasti DattaRomantic relationships pose a challenge for humans to understand. Theatre artist Shatarupa Bhattacharyya attempts to tackle this complexity in her new Hindi play, Silvatein, showing at Ranga Shankara today. The play has been translated by Puneet Gupta. With a decade of experience in theatre, having worked on around 20 productions as an actor, director, and production manager, Shatarupa shares her insights on her creative process, learning in theatre, and modern relationships. She expresses, “Theatre enables me to delve into issues both intellectually and emotionally.” Reflecting on how theatre has influenced her exploration of relationships, she explains, “It provided a unique space where abstract ideas could be brought to life in a profound way. The process of dramatizing these themes allowed me to engage with them intellectually and emotionally.” Through writing and staging Silvatein, Shatarupa found healing and empowerment, leading to closure and meaningful discussions. She believes theatre facilitates dialogue that transcends mere facts and statistics. Regarding modern relationships, Shatarupa emphasizes that the fast pace of contemporary life leaves little room for emotional connection. Stress often impacts relationships, causing individuals to become more impatient and emotionally distant from their partners. Technology, while enhancing communication, also introduces distractions, fostering a culture of instant gratification that can hinder lasting and fulfilling relationships. She observes that many people expect relationships to be effortless, neglecting the time and effort required to nurture them.The focus on self-care has grown as people seek easier ways to avoid solving problems. Our busy lifestyles often lead to shallow emotional connections, with little time left for nurturing relationships. Shatarupa's recent play was inspired by her own struggles in relationships. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and honest communication to establish healthy connections and avoid power dynamics. By acknowledging how past experiences influence reactions, she has learned to approach relationships with patience and empathy, embracing vulnerability as a path to personal growth.