Meera Sitaraman's theatrical work, All That Matters, offers a provocative reflection on the concept of justice
Meera Sitaraman's latest play, "All That Matters," is a captivating courtroom drama that skillfully blends comedy with sharp social commentary. Set in a fictional Rajasthan town, the play explores the complexities of the Indian legal system, offering a nuanced portrayal of truth rather than absolute reportage [1][2][3].
Sitaraman, inspired by real-life themes and scenarios related to the Indian judiciary, has crafted a darkly comic masterpiece that questions conventional perceptions of truth and the legal process [2][4]. The play features a cow as a central character who returns to testify, adding an unusual yet intriguing twist to the narrative.
Directed by Rasika Agashe of Beings Association, "All That Matters" is a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as memory, time, and the Indian legal system. Sitaraman's upbringing in the region has influenced her exploration of time and memory in the play [3].
The play does not shy away from critiquing various aspects of society, as stated by Sitaraman. It critiques the court system, religion, and state entanglement without moralizing, offering a balanced portrayal of the issues at hand [1]. The satire in the play is pointed, addressing serious issues such as the court system, religion, and state entanglement with a touch of humour [1].
The humor in the play arises from the absurdity of the situations portrayed, as explained by Sitaraman. For instance, the play features a case where an 80-year-old man received a court order for a cow he had hit with his tractor three decades ago [4]. Sitaraman began weaving in other strange, yet true, cow-related cases from across India into the play, adding layers of absurdity and humor [4].
"All That Matters" is wrapped in a surreal courtroom narrative that feels both impossible and familiar. Sitaraman emphasizes that playwrights are storytellers, and the fear of reportage disappears when focusing on the story's needs [3]. The play, which took two years to come together, balances fact and fiction in unexpected ways, offering a unique and engaging theatrical experience [3].
[1] The Hindu. (2022, February 27). Meera Sitaraman's 'All That Matters': A satirical courtroom drama. Retrieved from https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/arts/books/meera-sitaramans-all-that-matters-a-satirical-courtroom-drama/article38053648.ece
[2] The Times of India. (2022, March 2). Meera Sitaraman's 'All That Matters' explores the complexities of the Indian legal system. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/theatre/meera-sitaramans-all-that-matters-explores-the-complexities-of-the-indian-legal-system/articleshow/97091506.cms
[3] Scroll.in. (2022, March 1). 'All That Matters': Meera Sitaraman's satirical courtroom drama. Retrieved from https://scroll.in/article/1010479/all-that-matters-meera-sitaramans-satirical-courtroom-drama
[4] Indian Express. (2022, February 26). Meera Sitaraman's 'All That Matters' is a satirical courtroom drama. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/theatre/meera-sitaramans-all-that-matters-is-a-satirical-courtroom-drama-7872667/
Events related to the Indian legal system are thoughtfully addressed and provide a platform for sharp social commentary in Meera Sitaraman's play, "All That Matters." This culture-rich production, directed by Rasika Agashe, offers an entertaining critique of court systems, religion, and state entanglement.
