New Delhi (The Hawk): The art of "Katha-Vachan-Gayan" (storytelling-reading-singing) is legendary and rare and has roots in myth and legend. In India, very few individuals use songs to tell stories.
Ajay Kumar, a skilled actor from the National School of Drama (NSD), is one of them and relates the tale in his own distinctive style.
According to Ajay Kumar, "Katha-Vachan-Gayan" is a rare and legendary art form that is popularly known by a variety of names across the nation, including "Swangi" and "Bhandduai."
This genre's performers tell the tale using singing, reading, and expressive body language.
There are numerous locations where you can read Lerika Chandra's stories and Bhikhari Thakur's plays. Shakespeare's plays have examples of this genre as well.
According to Kumar, the audience is affected by the rhythm of poetry readings because their curiosity is piqued when the story is told through body language and facial expressions.
An actor's life is on the line when they perform, the theatre artist stated, adding that to describe the form as comprehensive theatre would not be overstating things given that the actor must speak, dance, act, sing, etc.
Kumar described his path, stating that he enrolled in the National School of Drama in 1997 and graduated in 2000.
In addition to acting in Rangmandal at NSD, Kumar claimed to be a visiting faculty member there who has presented more than 450 stories across the nation.
In more than 50 plays, Kumar has directed, performed in, and played music.
His presentations include "Bada Bhand To Bada Bhand," which is based on the renowned author Vijaydan Detha's "Rijak Marayada." The actor serves as the central character in this story, which is based on the dignity of labour.
More than 300 times, Kumar has told this tale.
His second programme, "Mai Re Main Ka Se Kahoon," is likewise based on Vijaydan Detha's short story "Duvidha."
More than 150 of these shows have been hosted by Kumar.
He emphasised the importance of preserving the folk art styles, cultural practises, and unusual forms of art that are an essential component of the nation's legacy.
(Inputs from Agencies)