Mayabazar Theatre Review: Fiery effects, fountains & moving sets light up this timeless folktale

Mayabazar(Comedy)★★★★Cast: Surabhi Jayanand, Surabhi Vasudeva Rao, Madhusudan Rao, Sai Pranathi, Gunavathi, Venkatesh PrasadGenre: Mythology, DramaDirector: VasudevaraoDuration: 90 minLanguage: Telugu

Surabhi Drama Theatre’s 90-minute Mayabazar retells Sasirekha Parinayam, the beloved folk retelling of a Mahabharata episode centred on the marriage of Sasirekha and Abhimanyu.

Borrowing its title from the iconic film adaptation that popularised the story, the Telugu production also celebrates Surabhi’s enduring theatrical tradition, embracing old-world charm through painted backdrops, visible microphone stands and period-style sound effects.Much of its appeal lies in the live music. Accompanied by instruments such as the tabla and harmonium, the production retains the flavour of traditional theatre, lending warmth and authenticity to the performance.

The familiar story comes alive through elaborate sets and inventive stagecraft. Ghatotkacha’s territory is particularly impressive, its giant, looming face with ever-moving eyes creating a haunting yet captivating visual.

Combined with fountains, waterfalls and a series of practical effects, the production delivers a sense of grandeur that often catches audiences off guard, even when they know exactly where the story is headed.

Among the evening’s standout moments is the confrontation between Abhimanyu and Ghatotkacha, which is elevated by fiery visual effects that add spectacle without overshadowing the narrative. The production also incorporates musical interludes, featuring beloved songs from Mayabazar, including Vivaha Bhojanambu and Aha Na Pellanta, which seamlessly deepen its nostalgic appeal.While some transitions feel rushed owing to the production’s brisk runtime, the pacing keeps audiences engaged throughout. More than anything, Mayabazar succeeds because it transports audiences to another era. For older viewers, it is likely to evoke cherished memories; for younger ones, it offers a glimpse into a style of theatre that continues to entertain with remarkable sincerity and imagination.Should you watch it?For its nostalgia, inventive stagecraft and crowd-pleasing spectacle, Mayabazar remains a thoroughly entertaining theatrical experience.