Just after the wave of biopics, entertainment industry is focussing on shows and films that have 'women squad' as the central theme.
Following the trend, a play titled 'Hello Zindagi' – written by Smita Bansal and directed by Raman Kumar was staged in the Capital recently. Produced by Felicity Theatre, the theatrical revolves around five women – from different backgrounds, having different personalities – staying together in a posh flat of Mumbai.
Though writer Smita Bansal denies following the trend of focussing on women cast while penning down the story, she believes that maybe the idea is exhausted. Bansal says her effort was to present something fresh to the audience. "There were no intentions of playing safe," she adds.
"Unlike other similar stories, 'Hello Zindagi' is more about the characters. I have tried to give equal importance to each one's story, without neglecting any character. I believe that diverse stories of these remarkable women have numerous similarities, and that's what makes this play interesting."
Sharing the same view, Director Raman Kumar assures that 'Hello Zindagi' is a unique serving for the theatre lovers. "If you watch the play you will realise that all the five women characters are so fresh. In fact, what fascinated me to do this play was its freshness. Also, it was surprising to know that this play is the first attempt by Smita Bansal, who is otherwise a popular Television actor."
He believes that her experience in the industry must have contributed to her vision to create these five unique women and their relationships.
About choosing the cast of the play, Director Raman Kumar says, "On reading a script, certain images start creating in your mind. And, in this play, the cast was a very important element because more than the story, this play was character-driven."
"We always have to keep in mind that a particular role is going to be performed by a certain actor live on stage. Therefore we have to consider the capability of an actor and also create a mood that suits the actors' personality and style," he adds.
Therefore, he chose the actors including Delnaaz Irani, Kishwar Merchant, Chitrashi Rawat, Minissha Lamba, Guddi Maruti very carefully.
Talking about the emotions the play offers, and the message it gives, the writer describes it to be a roller coaster ride.
She believes that audience experiences laughter and sheds tears too. On the other hand, the director mentions that the play just gives one message that 'God has made life beautiful, it's we who have created problems for ourselves'. So, 'Live life, you love or love the life you live.'