Chintamani Padya Natakam: The Andhra Pradesh (AP) government has banned a 100-year-old play named ‘Chintamani Padya Natakam’.
Key Highlights:
- The play 'Chintamani Padya Natakam' has enthralled people for almost 100 years.
- The government’s decision to ban the staging of the play was in response to the representation submitted by the members of Arya Vysya community objecting to certain dialogues and portrayal of a character in the noted Telugu play.
Objection:
- According to this community, the original play had a social message, but over the years, it has been modified purely for entertainment.
- The play is exhibited across the state, mainly in rural areas, during festivals and fairs.
After reviewing the contents of the play, the state government had banned it on January 17 this year.
About Chintamani Natakam:
- Chintamani Padya Natakam’ was written in 1920 by playwright Kallakuri Narayana Rao, who was also a social reformer.
- The play is about Chintamani, a courtesan and a devotee of Lord Krishna, who finds salvation by singing bhajans.
- She is courted by Subbi Shetty, a businessman from the Arya Vysya community, who loses his wealth and family due to his attraction to Chintamani.
