Open Space is to host another workshop as part of their continuing work under the project of Kiski Kahani, which traces the lineage of the changing interpretations of the Ramayana up to modern times. “This workshop will give enthusiasts a chance to collectively create their own interpretation of the Ramayana under the guidance of Annie Zaidi,” said Imran Khan, project coordinator for Kiski Kahani.
Annie Zaidi, who last year launched her second book “The Bad Boy’s Guide to the Good Indian Girls” (read interview here), will lead with a number of script writing exercises to allow participants to step out of their comfort zone and interpret the Ramayana in newer ways. Although, the workshop centres heavily on the Ramayana, script writing finds its due importance during its course too. “The Ramayana because of its myriad versions over the year that are all based on interpretations by various people, may it be folk or Valmiki, is an art that lives through the understandings people have of it and the tales they pencil using. Through this workshop we want to keep this art alive by giving more people a chance to pencil their version of the Ramayana through scriptwriting,” asserts Imran.
The resource person Annie Zaidi has written an award-winning play about the Ramayana. Her expertise, not only as far as the Ramayana goes, but also in the field of script writing is furthered by the fact that participants in her previous workshops title her as a ‘great teacher’. Imran opines, “Maybe because Annie is always open to suggestions, very interactive, perceptive and so relaxed that people easily warm up to her and participate with more vigour.”
Her authority in script writing will not only limit the participants understanding of the subject to the Ramayana, but instead help them to hone this skill further even for other pursuits. “The Ramayana works as a good example, particularly because there’s always a story to tell. It’s a very flexible legend,” believes Imran.
The sessions will be interactive, with discussions, debates, exercises, that are sure to engage the participants. To enhance the experience, Open Space will be taking only 12-15 participants, with most of their seats already booked.
Venue: Open Space, B-301, Kanchanjunga Apts., Kanchan Gully, Off Law College Road, Pune
Date & Time: 17th-19th Auguest ‘12, 4pm – 8pm
Contact: 020 2545 7371
Fees: Rs 900 per participant / Rs 500 per student
Image Courtesy: Wikipedia
