Samooh Theatre’s “Chitta Singh” Takes Centre Stage at Kullu National Theatre Festival – 2024

Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), March 06, 2024: Samooh Theatre, under the adept direction of Ravinder Sharma, captivated and amused audiences with their satirical play, “Chitta Singh,” during the prestigious Kullu National Theatre Festival. Adapted from Fritz Karnethe’s “The Refund,” this humorous production delves into the absurdities of life through the eyes of Chitta Singh, a forty-year-old grappling with unemployment and societal disdain for his perceived lack of skills.

The play unfolds ingeniously as Chitta, prompted by a whimsical suggestion, embarks on a mission to reclaim his tuition fees from the school he attended. The ensuing hilarity ensues when the principal, shocked after two decades, decides to hold a re-examination for Chitta. Each teacher, in an effort to oust him, justifies his incorrect answers, creating a cascade of uproarious situations. The climax, orchestrated by the mathematics master’s clever questioning, exposes Chitta’s unwitting excellence, ultimately leading to his expulsion.

“Chitta Singh” not only delivers laughs but also showcases the exceptional ability of the teachers to navigate absurdity without tarnishing the school’s reputation. The play’s witty narrative, coupled with the brilliant performances of the cast, featuring Ravinder Sharma, Sandeep Manhas, Vinay Sharma, Radhika Sharma, Jahnavi Sharma, Akash Katoch, and Gourav Manhas, ensures an unforgettable theatrical experience. Ravi Kumar Dhar’s efficient handling of the lights and the seamless backstage coordination by Reenuka and Neha contributed to the overall success of the production. Pooja Sharma managed the entire production with finesse.

Renowned Painter & Poetess Dr. Sanju Paul graced the evening with her august presence as the chief guest. The Kullu National Theatre Festival – 2024, served as a convergence point for artists, intellectuals, and civil society members. The event was a collaborative effort of Sh. Kehar Singh Thakur, Active Monal Cultural Association, and the Department of Language and Culture, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.

The festival, with special collaborations from the North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, and Punjab Sangeet Natak Akademi, showcased the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region. “Chitta Singh” stands as a testament to the enduring power of theatre to entertain, enlighten, and bring communities together.