Lucknow Witnesses Theatrical Tribute to Last Nawab of Awadh
A powerful play titled 'Aakhri Tajdaar: The Last King' brought history to life in Lucknow this Tuesday. The performance took place at the UP Sangeet Natak Akademi, captivating audiences with its portrayal of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah's final days in Awadh before his forced departure to Kolkata.
Collaborative Effort Brings Story to Stage
Three organizations joined forces to make this production possible. The UP Urdu Akademi, the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Committee, and the Bhartiye Nari Samman Avam Bal Vikas Sansthan organized the event together. Their collaboration ensured a rich cultural experience for all attendees.
Nawab Masood Abdullah served as both writer and director for the play. Sanjay Tripathi provided co-direction, helping to shape the narrative flow. This creative team worked meticulously to present an authentic representation of historical events.
Revealing Hidden Historical Details
Nawab Masood Abdullah shared insights about the play's content. "We aimed to showcase lesser-known aspects of Wajid Ali Shah's life," he explained. "For instance, many people don't realize he spent fifteen days as a guest of Kashi Naresh in Benaras before traveling to Kolkata."
The director highlighted another significant moment depicted in the performance. "The play shows Wajid Ali Shah personally approaching Major Outram to discuss the terms of Awadh's annexation," Abdullah noted. This direct engagement with British officials revealed the Nawab's proactive stance during a turbulent period.
Musical Accompaniment and Honors
Aditya Kumar Sharma composed the music for the production, adding emotional depth to key scenes. Following the performance, organizers recognized Nawab Masood Abdullah's contributions by presenting him with the prestigious Awadh Samman award. This honor celebrated his dedication to preserving Awadh's cultural heritage through theater.
Dramatic Scenes from the Nawab's Final Days
The play opened with a vibrant Janmashtami celebration within the royal palace. Wajid Ali Shah watched a captivating kathak performance, applauding enthusiastically afterward. He generously rewarded the dancers with gold coins, demonstrating his patronage of the arts.
As the story progressed, emotional farewells unfolded on stage. The Nawab visited his beloved Begum Hazrat Mahal for one last meeting before his journey. He also embraced his son, Birjis Qadr, in a poignant moment that highlighted personal sacrifices amid political upheaval.
Political Intrigue After the Nawab's Departure
Once Wajid Ali Shah left for Kolkata, his court ministers and Raja Jiya Lal approached Begum Hazrat Mahal with a crucial suggestion. They urged her to declare Birjis Qadr as the new Nawab of Awadh. This move aimed to reclaim control of the kingdom from British forces.
The production concluded with a tragic episode. British authorities executed Raja Jiya Lal after he refused to disclose the location of hidden treasure. This final scene underscored the brutal realities of colonial rule.
Talented Cast Brought Characters to Life
A dedicated ensemble portrayed the historical figures:
- Masood Abdullah embodied Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
- Tanya Verma played Begum Hazrat Mahal
- Dr. Aseem Tikko performed as Major Outram
- Zafar Kazmi took on the role of Birjis Qadr
Their performances transported audiences back to a defining era in Lucknow's history, making the past feel vividly present.
