Mahesh Bhatt's 'Arth' set for a comeback in a theatrical production

Mahesh Bhatt's 'Arth' set for a comeback in a theatrical production

NEW DELHI: The 1982 film Arth, a semi-autobiographical film by director Mahesh Bhatt which got actress Shabana Azmi a National Award for acting, is now being presented for the first time on stage.

The film had changed the face of Indian cinema for the manner in which it looked at the bold subject of extra marital relationships, as also remembered for its mesmerising soundtrack.

After the recent success of his plays The Last Salute and Trial of Errors which also launched his latest protégé Imran Zahid, the duo of Bhatt and Zahid are now pairing up again for the dramatic adaptation of Arth.

Bhatt feels that Arth was a classic film that raised the issue of gender equality way back in the 80‘s. "The film looked at the issue of women emancipation like no Indian dramatic work ever has. No one has been able to better what Arthhighlighted in the world of movies or in theatre. I think the 21st century India needs to be experience the theme of Arththrough theatre" says the filmmaker.

Arth was way ahead of its time and Bhatt feels that subject will strike a chord even with today‘s generation.

"The issues with regards to our society that were raised in Arth are relevant in even in today‘s times. Theatre has given me an entirely new outlet and after staging two successful plays The Last Salute and Trial of Errors, I took this decision. I think adapting such a piece of art into a theatrical adaptation will not be an easy task but I am ready for this test. I feel this medium has help connecting with audience in all together different way", he adds.

Delhi-based actor Imran Zahid, who earlier essayed the role of Muntadar Al Zaidi in The Last Salute and of journalist Rehan in Trial of Errors is all geared up for this new assignment.

"Mahesh Bhatt is all set to recreate magic of film Arth in a theatrical play. It‘ll be a big challenge for me to play the lead but I am up for it", says Imran.