'Pret', directed by renowned theatre luminary M K Raina and based on Henrik Ibsen’s celebrated play 'Ghosts', was staged recently at the Triveni Kala Sangam in New Delhi.
The play, whose Hindi translation was done by noted scholar and playwright Nemi Chandra Jain, explored the conflict between entrenched traditions and emerging ideas shaped by scientific thought and rational inquiry.
It examined how societies that glorify outdated beliefs and moral codes, without questioning their relevance, continue to suffer the consequences of a decaying past. Through its narrative, 'Pret' confronted the invisible “ghosts” of inherited hypocrisy, repression, and denial, revealing how unresolved truths resurface across generations, often leading to tragedy.
Sharing his perspective, director M K Raina noted, “The play deals with the idea of change, when new ideas and discoveries about life and sciences confront each other. Holding on to an old and decadent past, preserved by glorifying its outdated beliefs and virtues without scientific rationality, results in pain, suffering and tragedy. The ghosts of the evil past keep persisting unless they are resisted and exposed with scientific truths.”
The play features a distinguished cast including Rakesh Kumar Singh, Kavita Seth, Vipin Kumar, Namrata Sinha, and Arpit Anand, bringing depth and intensity to this powerful adaptation.
Presented by Three Arts Club (TAC), one of Delhi’s oldest and most respected theatre institutions, 'Pret' is produced by Anuradha Dar, a leading figure in Delhi theatre and education.
