Karachi
A local theater group "Mauj" has created a sensation with staging play Ramayana, based on the ancient Hindu epic in the capital of the Sindh province of Pakistan.
The play presented at the Karachi Arts Council, over the weekend, was not only well-received by the audience but also praised by critics for its presentation, acting, and use of modern technology.
Mauj also won appreciation for their efforts to bring the epic to life by using AI enhancements.
All the artists playing different characters of the show were Muslims.
Scene from the show Ramayan
The director of the show, Yoheshwar Karera, said, "For me, bringing Ramayan to life on stage was a visual celebration. I never thought that I would face any opposition or danger because of it. Rather, this experience proved that Pakistani society is much more tolerant than is generally believed."
Karira said that the show has received a great reception and critics have especially praised its production, acting, and combination of modern lighting and music.
Film and art critic Umair Alvi said in his comments, "Stories like the Ramayana connect people all over the world. The honesty with which the story is told in Mauj's presentation, and the beauty with which the lighting, music, costumes, and stage design are coordinated, is commendable."
"We not only wanted the audience to hear this ancient story, but feel it as a living experience. And we are happy that we succeeded in that," said Rana Kazmi, who plays the role of Sita in the play and is also its producer.
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This attempt to bring this ancient Hindu epic to life on stage using cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) has been hailed by critics as a shining example of interfaith harmony and creative expression in Pakistan.