Charumati (चारुमति)

Written by Satya Mohan Joshi in Nepali Bhasa, the Dance Drama Charumati envisions the history of Charumati, the daughter of Ashoka. Charumati is believed to have come to Nepal with the Emperor Ashoka, to have married a Nepali boy named Devapal and to have settled in Nepal. She is accredited to have built a Buddhist stupa at Chabahil which is now known as Dhando Chaitya or Charumati Stupa.

It was a great experience to make a journey into 2300 years old history within 20 days and to work with a diverse cast for historically as well as culturally significant play Charumati. It tells a story of a time almost 2300 years back. I thought it would be unjust to adapt such a historical play to the time we are living in. Thus we have tried our best to create the historical ambiance either by design or music. Though it is a historical play, obviously it is not an official document: only the glimpses based on the history an traditions you will be able to see.

I am extremely grateful to Satya Mohan Joshi - nothing I had to do to win his tryst. I am equally grateful to Mr. Buddhiraj Bajracharya from NBCCC and Mr. Abhay Kumar from the Embassy of India who, without any hesitation, gave me this responsibility.

I happened, by coincidence, to be the director and designer of the play. And by coincidence you all are here as my witness. I am grateful to you all. I would appreciate your objective judgments.