Matsanyay

• Author: Bratya Basu (ব্রাত্য বসু)
• Genre: Drama and Drama Studies (Natak O Natak Samparkita)
• ISBN: 9789354252778
• Pages: 120
• Weight: 295 grams

Book Description

In the historical drama Matsanyay, Bratya Basu delves into the political intrigues and familial conflicts within the Pushyabhuti dynasty in Shrikanta Rajya. Rajyavardhan ascends the throne as the eldest son, but his younger brother Harshavardhan, a believer in his own superior cunning and adherence to Chanakyan principles, hesitates to relinquish his ambitions.

Before Rajyavardhan's coronation, the cunning Vandi warns the royal ministers about the brothers' mutual animosity, claiming their power struggle mirrors that of mice biting one another. Despite the conflicts, the generals and citizens collectively choose Mahabahu as their ruler. However, Mahabahu later declares Rajyavardhan as his successor. This decision creates ripples of discontent, especially with alliances formed by Krishna Vardhan and Mahabahu’s daughter, Lalantika, who turn to Shashanka, the king of Gauda, for support.

As the narrative unfolds, betrayal, ambition, and tragedy take center stage: Krishna Vardhan is killed, Lalantika faces violence, and Shashanka murders Rajyavardhan. Harshavardhan, amidst this chaos, seeks to restore peace, pledging impartiality toward all religions despite being a Shaiva himself.

The play intricately weaves themes of desire, power, and human relationships, presenting a gripping tale of historical intrigue and moral dilemmas.

Highlights

• Explores historical conflicts within the Pushyabhuti dynasty.
• Blends political drama with personal struggles, betrayal, and redemption.
• Showcases Harshavardhan's transformation into a leader seeking peace and equality.
• Richly layered with vivid characters like Mahabahu, Lalantika, Shashanka, and others.

Author's Bio

Bratya Basu (ব্রাত্য বসু, b. 25 September 1969, Kolkata) is a celebrated playwright, director, actor, and film director. A graduate with an MA in Bengali literature from Presidency College and the University of Calcutta, Bratya has made a profound impact on modern Bengali theater.

His accolades include the Shyamal Sen Smriti Samman (1998), Dishari Puraskar (2000), and Satyen Mitra Puraskar (2001, 2003, 2004), among others. He has also directed acclaimed films like Rasta, Teesta, and Tara.