Moments of spontaneity

He likes poetry that is “real” and “simple”. Playwright and poet Manav Kaul tells ANUPAMA RAJU of his experiments in theatre and poetry.

“Perhaps you do not know what/your fingers are making on the thali?/But I'm watching those clouds…”

So reads a rough translation of the opening lines from a poem on the designs our fingers make on a plate after a meal. What was Manav Kaul thinking of when he wrote this seemingly ‘simple' poem, I wonder. And I'm tempted to read and know more of his poetry.

Innovative ideas
This playwright-poet from Kashmir is as understated as his words. Writing in Hindi, he has been making quiet waves with his innovative and refreshing ideas for some years now.

Born in Baramullah, Kashmir, Manav Kaul started the theatre group ‘ Aranya' in 2004. His work includes writing and directing plays such as “Shakkar ke Paanch Daane”, “Peele Scooterwala Aadmi”, “Bali Aur Shambhu”, “Ilhaam” and “Aisa Kehte Hain”. He has also designed, adapted and directed “Hakki Haarutide Nodidira” (a Kannada play by Tendulkar), “Aantaheen” (Jean Paul Sartre), and “Park” (in English).

So, what came to him first: poetry or drama? “I was doing theatre for a long time, also writing simultaneously,” explains Kaul.