2074 began with a blast for Kathmandu’s theatre lovers with Sunil Pokharel’s adaptation of literary powerhouse Indra Bahadur Rai’s Jaymaya Aafu Matrai Lekhapani Aaipugi (Jayamaya Arrives at Lekhapani, Alone) going on stage to a sold-out crowd at Mandala Theatre on New Year’s day. Told from the point of view of Jayamaya, the play’s protagonist, the story is about a community of Nepalis living in Burma, and of them fleeing back to Nepal in the wake of World War II—a journey that only Jayamaya is able to complete. 

Pokharel, who has so far directed over four dozen plays, bases his latest output on Darjeeling-based writer and critic IB Rai’s classic story. This is the second time Pokharel is adapting one of Rai’s story on stage; prior to this, in 2014, Pokharel, a self-confessed fan of Rai, had adapted his story Jar for theatre.

Speaking to the Post, prior to the staging, director Pokharel, One of the pioneers of modern Nepali theatre, said that in Rai’s story he saw the seeds of a film rather than of a drama. “Actually, initially I wanted to adapt this story into a film. The story has struck me with how powerful it was the first time I read it, and now, although I am not sure of the outcome, I am adapting it onto stage,” Pokharel said. He added that he plans to turn the script into a movie in the future. 

Also present at the premiere was, Prachanda Malla, former chancellor of Nepal Music and Drama Academy (NMDA), who feted Pokharel’s attempt of bringing an important work of literature like this 

to stage and making it relatable to the modern generation, while also lamenting the government’s lack of initiative when it comes to theatre. “Nepal is fortunate to have 

a director like Sunil Pokharel who continues to give to theatre despite facing so many obstacles,” he said, “If the government was more forthcoming towards helping artists and creators like Pokharel, the theatre sector would be flourishing like it truly should be.”

Author Kumar Nagarkoti who spoke to the audience after the show, related how he had read IB Rai’s story before the staging but was still surprised by the unique tone the play sets for itself. “While watching the play, I saw glimpses of IB Rai, but more importantly, I also saw distinct glimpses of Sunil Pokharel, which is a great compliment to the director,” he said, praising Pokharel’s seamless adaptation.

The play involves a crew of 22 students, all of whom are Pokharel’s students learning the art of theatre with the project, Gyan: Discover Yourself with Sunil Pokharel. The play also features a live music by the duo Utsab Budathoki and Bishow Raj Kafle. Jaymaya Aafu Matrai Lekhapani Aaipugi will be staged for a month, through May 14.