26/07/2025
Tukde – A Haunting Echo of Partition’s Scars
Tukde is a deeply evocative theatre production that unravels the lingering impact of India’s Partition through the intimate lens of a family torn apart by that seismic event. More than a historical retelling, the play captures the invisible fractures—emotional, psychological and generational, that continue to echo long after borders were redrawn.
With a minimalist stage design, colourful costumes and emotionally charged performances, Tukde builds an atmosphere heavy with memory and quiet resilience. It avoids the trap of sensationalism, instead choosing to humanise the trauma, reminding us that behind every statistic of displacement is a deeply personal story of loss, endurance, and love.
Writer-director Jyotsna Jyoti (Vividha Arts) brings remarkable sensitivity and narrative depth to this production. From the symbolic use of a shattered vase (Sarabh Dattar) to the layered portrayal of post-independence struggle and reunion, the play is rich in metaphor and meaning. The emotional reunion of Didi (Namita Matani) and Ashok tugs at the heart, while Master Ji (Dinsha Palkhiwala) and Mrs. Joshi (Neena Sinha) live on through the powerful performances of Sudh Vach, Sarwat, Mehul, and Divya. All the actors offer strong support—whether portraying unity, corruption within the refugee camp, or those exploiting vulnerability under the guise of favours. Moments of light comic relief, especially involving corrupt officials (Ajay Kumar and others) are well-timed and provide much-needed balance, without diluting the core message. The younger generation’s empathy (Muhil Somaiya and Divya Behl) towards Mama Ji, and the subtle portrayal of Hindu-Muslim (Nisar Sirgua) unity amid chaos, add further emotional layers.
Each actor delivers with precision—measured pauses, expressive diction, and heartfelt emotion. The production is beautifully underscored by Sadiq Rehmani’s soulful background score, Sagar Agashe's lights, Pankaj Upadhayay's voiceover, Sandhya bose, Limcy and others with backstage support flow seamlessly, enhancing the play’s emotional resonance. RJ Manish from Radio Manpasand made the evening very special along with his team.
From the hopeful beginnings of a wedding to the devastation of displacement, Tukde ends on a poignant note:
"Chhodon kal ki baatein, kal ki baat purani… naye daur mein likhenge milke nayi kahani."
Kudos to Vividha Arts, Jyotsna Jyoti and her Team for presenting Tukde, a powerful and timely reminder that even in the face of historical tragedy, the human spirit strives to heal, rebuild, and hope.
Some candid moments from the stage of Tukde are here
Vividha Arts | Manpasand | | Euphony Films
