Written by: Sarbananda Kaivarta
Guwahati: The play Sahabas, written, conceptualized, and directed by Moon Kumar Saikia, was successfully staged on Saturday evening at the Aanrkapor Intimate Auditorium at Gotanagar in Guwahati.
The production left a lasting impact on the audience with its emotionally charged narrative and socially relevant theme.
The play explores the life of an Alzheimer’s patient, delving into his psychological struggles, emotional breakdown, and the resulting strain on family relationships. It poignantly highlights the fragile nature of mental stability and the often-overlooked challenges faced by caregivers.
At the centre of the story is Rajanikanta Baruah, an Alzheimer’s patient who shares a deep bond with his family. Having lost his only son, a soldier martyred in service, Rajanikanta—due to his deteriorating condition—fails to remember the tragedy. Instead, he lives in hopeful anticipation of his son’s return, routinely cleaning the house and asking his wife to prepare his favourite meals.
As the illness progresses, Rajanikanta’s condition worsens. He loses short-term memory, wanders aimlessly, and eventually fails to recognise his wife, Nirupama. In a heartbreaking transformation, he becomes aggressive and unpredictable—behaviour starkly contrasting his earlier personality. His loss of control over basic functions and his destructive tendencies further deepen the crisis at home.
Nirupama, already burdened by the grief of losing her son, struggles to cope with her husband’s condition. The relentless caregiving, emotional trauma, and physical exhaustion take a toll on her health, pushing her into a state of despair where she feels like a “living corpse.” With no medical cure offering relief, she reaches the brink of hopelessness.
At this critical juncture, Dr. Nilima enters the narrative, offering both clarity and compassion. She explains the nature of Alzheimer’s and emphasises that patience and love—not anger—are the most effective ways to manage the condition. Her counsel encourages Nirupama to draw strength from her years of companionship and to embrace the reality with resilience.
The play culminates with Nirupama choosing to continue her journey of Sahabas—co-existence—with her husband. This co-existence is portrayed as an act of profound humanity, love, and commitment, reflecting the true spirit of an ‘Ardhangini’.
Carrying a strong social message, Sahabas addresses the growing disconnect in modern, nuclear families where elderly care is often neglected. The production underscores the immense patience, empathy, and emotional strength required to support individuals living with Alzheimer’s.
In terms of performances, Khalinjyoti Bora delivered a remarkable portrayal of Rajanikanta, capturing the complexities of the character with depth and authenticity.
Ajanta Hazarika, as Nirupama, delivered a deeply moving performance, effectively conveying the emotional turmoil of a caregiver. Bhaswati Bora, in the role of Dr. Nilima, brought grace and balance to the narrative. The cast’s synergy ensured a highly immersive theatrical experience.
The technical aspects of the production were equally commendable. Music director Siva Prasad Nath enhanced the emotional depth of the play with a nuanced background score, while Dhiraj Kumar’s lighting design added visual intensity through effective use of shadows and highlights.