Theatre Performance Sheds Light on India's Silent Elderly Crisis
On Friday evening, the International Buddhist Research Institute in Lucknow became the stage for a powerful social commentary that resonated deeply with audiences. The Hindi play Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein brought into sharp focus the disturbing trend of elderly abandonment sweeping across India, a crisis leading to the proliferation of old-age homes.
A Heart-Wrenching Narrative of Family Breakdown
Written by Jaivardhan and directed by Prabhat Kumar Bose, the production was organized by the senior citizens' welfare organization Shraddha Manav Seva Evam Kalyan Samiti. The story centered around the emotional devastation experienced by older individuals who, after dedicating their lives to raising families, find themselves discarded in an old-age home called Apna Ghar.
The play masterfully depicted the weakening fabric of family relationships in contemporary Indian society. Through compelling performances, it showed how elderly parents face profound emotional turmoil when their children, whom they nurtured for decades, ultimately abandon them to institutional care.
Seeking Solutions Through Intergenerational Understanding
Beyond merely highlighting the problem, Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein offered a vision for healing. The production emphasized how society can achieve better balance through cordial understanding between generations. It served as a poignant reminder that respect and care for elders form the foundation of a healthy society.
The performance concluded to prolonged applause, with many audience members visibly moved by the authentic portrayal of this pressing social issue. The emotional response demonstrated how theatre can effectively mirror societal concerns and spark necessary conversations about family values and responsibilities.
This artistic initiative represents a growing awareness of elderly welfare issues in India, particularly in urban centers where traditional family structures are undergoing significant transformation. The play successfully transformed statistical concerns about aging into relatable human stories that left a lasting impact on all who witnessed it.
