This most awaited of comic shows began with a parody of a prayer to the Almighty. The Maha Jodi appeared in ascetic uniforms and showered praise upon the heavens for having blessed Nepal with its pleasant hills, magnificent mountains and bountiful plains. The duo then went on to lament god’s failure in granting Nepal a good leader, a visionary man of the people who might have led the country to a great future. As might be expected, the scene was carried out with just the right mix of humour and satire, delivered in a manner likely to sting and ridicule as well as give everyone present quite a few good laughs.  

Comedians Rajaram Poudel and Kiran KC then made a joint entrance—dressed as police constables, the former from Nepal and the latter from India—the actors brought to the fore the sensitive issue of border encroachment while making sure the atmosphere did not get too politically heavy. More importantly though, the two effortlessly portrayed how most Nepali leaders are loyal ‘agents’ of neighbouring India and China while still managing to make the audience laugh. Comedian Shiva Hari Paudel made an appearance next. Portraying the character of a common Nepali man, he reiterated the point made during the skit’s opening. “We need a leader who will not only preach but also guarantee food for the common citizens,” stated the character at one point.

Also making an appearance was Dilip Ramayajhi, whose ‘MaPaSe dance’ which was a huge hit with the audience. However it was when Acharya and Shrestha entered the stage again—as personifications of the ethnic conflict between Brahmins and Newars—that things really got hilarious. A third skit featured Shrestha in the role of a ‘don’. Since Acharya’s character had a bit of a stutter, the very premise of the short scene created ample room for comedy.

The fourth and final skit saw Shestha and Acharya personifying Bikash and Bhrastachar respectively. For audiences who are familiar with the duo’s work on television, the Maha Jatra skits were a wonderful coming together of all the things the Jodi’s comedy stands for.

The gala is ongoing at the Rastriya Naach Ghar. Basundhara Bhusal,  Mohit Bansha Achaarya and Mallika Kari are also part of the cast. The event will continue till May 22, beginning at 5:30 pm.