Bringing comedy and suspense together
Punekar Rushi Manohar has come a long way from participating in intercollegiate competitions to now, being featured in commercial plays.
The actor-director is now ready with his second play, Gangadhar Hi Shaktimaan Hai. It is a two act Hindi play. Rushi says, “The play stars me and Gaurav Barve (writer). The story revolves around two thieves, who are out for the biggest theft and will they be able to do it? The obstacles they face, and all of this will be seen in the play.”
This is also the first time Rushi is exploring comedy and suspense as a genre. “This is the ninth production of Aaj Kal group. We have practiced and rehearsed it for over a month now and hope people will enjoy the merging of this two genres,” he says.
He adds that the name Shaktimaan is a symbolism in the play and has nothing to do with the original superhero.
His 2017 play, Sorry Paranjape, was well-received for it thoughtful subject, approach and social message. However, the actor says that this play is completely different.
Rushi’s first commercial play, Dada Ek Good News Ahe, garnered so much attention and gave him visibility, too. “I got to learn so much from the play, and gained recognition as it was one of my first commercial plays. It has been one of my best learning experiences. I hope this helps me gather audience for my experimental plays,” says Rushi.
Talking about the theatre industry, Rushi adds that no one can beat it. “It is so encouraging to see so many experimental theatre groups. It is one of the most strongest theatre scenes and it is growing too,” he concludes.
I gained recognition as it was one of my first commercial plays. I hope this helps me gather audience for my experimental plays.
RUSHI MANOHAR, ACTOR