PONNI Micro Drama, Written and Directed by Shri Kaavalam Nanda Kumar, National Vice President, Eastern Region, Played at the National Micro Drama Festival in Delhi on 2nd February 2025

In the heart of the National Micro Drama Festival in Delhi, a powerful and thought-provoking performance took center stage on February 2nd, 2025. The micro drama, Ponni, was written and directed by Shri Kaavalam Nanda Kumar, National Vice President, Eastern Region, and left the audience grappling with the stark realities of societal neglect, gender inequality, and the harsh conditions that shape the lives of women in rural India.

A Story of Love, Struggle, and Despair

Ponni tells the deeply moving tale of Ponni and Selvan, a couple who, despite their deep love for each other, are faced with an immense challenge shortly after their marriage. They live in a village where basic amenities, such as sanitation, are scarce. Selvan’s village lacks essential infrastructure, and the absence of toilets becomes a major source of tension in their married life. Their story unfolds as a reflection of the harsh realities many people face in rural India, especially women who are often left to bear the brunt of systemic neglect.

A Marriage Strained by a Lack of Sanitation

Ponni and Selvan’s marriage, initiated with love and family consent, soon becomes burdened by the oppressive lack of sanitation. Selvan’s family lives in a cramped home with his parents and school-going sister. Despite his best efforts, Selvan struggles to convince his father, who is already financially burdened, to build a toilet. The frustration of trying to balance family responsibilities with the desire for change weighs heavily on him.

Ponni, having grown up unaware of the challenges posed by open defecation and inadequate sanitation, is horrified by the indignity she must endure daily. Her pleas for a toilet, for change, are met with Selvan’s helplessness. He cannot provide her with the solution she seeks due to the economic and social limitations his family faces. The tension between love and responsibility, helplessness and hope, starts to tear at the fabric of their relationship.

The Breaking Point: A Desperate Attempt for Change

One morning, Ponni reaches her breaking point. Unable to endure the humiliation of open defecation and unsanitary conditions any longer, she attempts to leave. Her departure is a heart-wrenching moment, as she walks away from a life she once thought would be filled with happiness and hope. Selvan’s desperate pleas to stop her fail, as he is trapped by the very circumstances that are beyond his control.

Consumed by guilt, frustration, and helplessness, Selvan reacts violently, unable to process the emotional turmoil. He isolates himself, spiraling into despair. The moment is a tragic reflection of how systemic neglect can affect not only the lives of individuals but also their mental health and relationships.

The Devastating Consequences: A Life Lost

The emotional crescendo of Ponni comes when Ponni returns to find that Selvan, overwhelmed by despair and guilt, has taken his own life. Her grief is unbearable, and the impact of Selvan’s death leaves a deep scar. In a poignant moment of shared grief, Ponni and Selvan’s sister embrace, a silent acknowledgment of the deep pain and hopelessness that many women, particularly in rural areas, endure due to social and economic constraints.

The tragic ending of the story serves as a stark commentary on the ongoing plight of women who are trapped in a cycle of neglect and apathy. It highlights how societal structures often fail to provide women with the basic dignity and opportunities they deserve, leaving them to bear the consequences of a system that disregards their well-being.

A Powerful Message: The Need for Change

Shri Kaavalam Nanda Kumar’s Ponni is a deeply emotional and poignant micro-drama that confronts issues of sanitation, gender inequality, and social apathy. Through the lens of Ponni and Selvan’s tragic story, the play highlights the devastating impact of inadequate infrastructure and systemic neglect on the lives of women in rural India. It calls for urgent attention to basic human rights, such as sanitation, and sheds light on the need for societal change.

At the National Micro Drama Festival, Ponni was a moving testament to the power of theater in sparking conversations around critical social issues. Through its compelling narrative, it left the audience with an important message: the importance of addressing the root causes of social neglect and the need for systemic change in order to create a more equitable and dignified future for all.

National Micro Drama Festival 2025 Pays Tribute to Omcheri NN Pillai

The 2025 edition of the National Micro Drama Festival, held at the LTG Auditorium, was an overwhelming success, captivating audiences with its powerful and diverse performances. Organized by Vriksh the Theatre in collaboration with the National School of Drama, the event not only showcased remarkable performances but also paid a heartfelt tribute to Omcheri NN Pillai, a legendary figure in Indian literature and theater.

Omcheri NN Pillai, revered as the ‘Godfather of Vriksh the Theatre,’ made groundbreaking contributions to Malayalam theatre and played a pivotal role in the inception of the National Micro Drama Festival. His legacy was honored throughout the event, with festival-goers reflecting on his immense impact on contemporary theatre. Known for his extensive body of work, including over fifty one-act plays and novels, Omcheri Sir redefined the landscape of Malayalam drama. His dedication to the power of storytelling inspired many, making him an integral figure in shaping the future of Indian theater.

The Transformative Power of Micro Dramas

The National Micro Drama Festival 2025 highlighted the transformative power of micro dramas—brief but potent performances that deliver profound messages in under ten minutes. This year’s festival explored a diverse range of themes, including socio-political struggles, religious dogmatism, and the resilience of oral traditions. Despite their brevity, these performances resonated deeply with audiences, sparking reflection and stirring emotions.

As the festival unfolded, Dr. Abhilash Pillai, the Programme Director and a visionary director himself, guided the event, bringing his unique blend of tradition and contemporary thought to the performances. His influence was evident in every show, adding depth and richness to the festival’s exploration of creativity and social consciousness.

A Celebration of Inclusivity and Artistic Expression

Vriksh the Theatre, founded in 2015, continued to demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and unity through the arts. Through its motto, “Art for Humanity,” the theater group has worked to impact societal well-being, particularly for marginalized communities. The success of this year’s festival was a testament to their unwavering dedication to offering a platform for diverse voices and fostering creativity in the theater world.

As the 2025 festival came to a close, it left an indelible impression on all who attended. The performances, including Ponni, and the tribute to Omcheri NN Pillai, highlighted the vital role of theater in driving social change, nurturing creativity, and providing a space for conversations about the most pressing issues of our time. The National Micro Drama Festival will undoubtedly continue to be a significant platform for both aspiring and established artists, inspiring the next generation of theater makers.