Lucknow’s hidden gems: Director Gopal Sinha says ragging incidents triggered his interest in theatre

Director Gopal Sinha’s play Sahir, Har Ek Pal Ka Shayar was staged in Lucknow on Friday (January 16), and this created a great deal of buzz in the city. The musical presentation delved into the legendary poet’s life and touched upon his unparalleled contributions to the film industry. 

In an exclusive interview with Roktim Rajpal Diaries, Sinha opens up about how his days in IIT Roorkee ignited his love for art as a medium. He also reveals the reason behind helming a play on Sahir’s journey. 

(Edited excerpts from the interview)

What, according to you, is the most unique aspect of Sahir’s life?

Sahir is synonymous with poetry. He had a poetic bent of mind. He, however, was rebuffed by his father and then became devoted to his mother. Girls were attracted to him. That said, he was weak in maintaining relationships.

Director Gopal Sinha. | Credit: Gopal Sinha

Despite this, he was a legend in the film industry. That way, he had a dual/split personality. 

The play was a musical. What made you go in for this format?

Sahir was famous for his film lyrics. So, gaane toh aise he aane the. We chose songs that went with the drama. We were also clear on not including full songs in the play. So, we went with only the relevant portions. 

Any suggestions for strengthening Lucknow’s theatre scene?

People are now using theatre as a strong medium for expression. However, more and the latest infrastructure is needed. In Mumbai, for instance, we have the latest lights. . We need something similar here. 

How did your association with theatre begin?

I was interested in it from childhood. We had ragging sessions in IIT and those who could sing and all always had it easy. My seniors asked me to perform in the fresher’s ball. We put on a skit. Incidentally, 25 marks were allocated to hobbies in our syllabus. We also had drama as one of the options. We would perform during annual functions, and that’s how it started. 

Later, when I was in a job in Lucknow, I joined Sanket (a group) and that reintroduced me to theatre. 

You are known for your work in lighting. 

Doing theatre became a challenge because of my job. Moreover, it was always a hobby. Director KB Chandra asked me to stay connected with theatre by working on lighting. He reasoned that it would be less time-consuming. People then started appreciating my work. 

Is directing a play easier than acting in it or arranging the lighting?

Nothing is easy in this field. Acting is not meant for everyone. It needs dedication. Lighting captures the concept of the play. There can be a clash of perceptions. Moreover, the infrastructure can be an issue. Then there is direction. You have to be a tough taskmaster. Your relationship is on the line.