What does it mean for a villain to seek salvation? Drawn from Jnanpith awardee Kuvempu’s literary masterpiece ‘Sri Ramayana Darshanam’, the theatrical reimagines Ravana not as a mere antagonist, but as a soul torn between ambition and redemption. 

Set in the aftermath of Lanka’s downfall, the story follows a broken Ravana as he turns to Goddess Kalikadevi in desperation, seeking divine power to defeat Rama. In a trance-like state, he is haunted by visions of loss and longing that stir repentance. Through these surreal encounters, he begins to transform – preparing for a final battle not just for his kingdom, but for inner release. 

Staged in Kannada and shaped under the directorial brilliance of Manju Kodagu, this poetic and philosophical work comes alive through a striking blend of theatre and dance. Featuring performances by Avinash Rai, Shwetha Arehole, Chaithra Kotyan, and Charith Suvarna, the production layers dialogue with stylised movement – ranging from Dravidian pooja rituals to Margi-style Koodiyattam. With music by Arun Kumar and Bharath G.V., and lighting by Manju Hiremath, the play becomes an immersive expression of myth, movement, and moral complexity – echoing Kuvempu’s vision of the universal human.