THEMES AND CONCERNS IN VIJAY TENDULKAR'S SELECTED PLAYS

Abstract

The contemporary Indian theatre recognizes Vijay Tendulkar as one of its principal playwrights. Tendulkar explores multiple storm-causing problems through his works and depicts the various complex issues affecting our Indian society. Vijay Tendulkar was encouraged to start writing because of the literary environment that prevented his home. At the age of six, he composed his inaugural narrative. During his formative years, he observed western theatrical productions, which subsequently motivated him to devise his own creations. Upon reaching the age of eleven, he undertook the roles of writer, director, and performer in his initial theatrical presentation. Following his departure from academic institutions at the age of fourteen, he became engaged in socio-political activism, particularly within the Indian independence movement. Consequently, this commitment engendered a sense of estrangement from both his familial and social circles. A significant portion of his early literary endeavors was characterized by a personal dimension and intended for dissemination; however, his creative output evolved into a means of catharsis thereafter. Tendulkar began his professional career as a newspaper writer. When theatrical companies produced experimental shows organizations like Rangayan in the 1950s and 1960s, Tendulkar's works quickly changed the storyline of current Marathi theatre. After starting off as a generalist, Vijay advanced through the ranks to take charge of the Sangeet Natak Academy. Ten of his thirty complete Marathi plays have been translated into English. He composed plays in many Indian languages as well. Each of these plays presents the concepts of power, aggressiveness, and gender inequality in a different way. Two of his plays, Kamala and Silence! The Court is in Session, address gender-based prejudice in one way or another. The drama Sakharam Binder examines how aggressive people can be.