“Terminal 3,” a thought-provoking play set to grace the stage in Hyderabad on March 31 and April 5, offers a poignant portrayal of the post-pandemic era. Penned and directed by Surendra Singh Negi, chief coordinator of the foreign languages programme at the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), the play delves deep into the complexities of life in the wake of unprecedented challenges.
A Multifaceted Narrative
This 60-minute trilingual play, featuring dialogues in Hindi, English, and Spanish, unfolds with the chance encounter of protagonists Ana Strejilevich and Madan Laal at an airport. As the two old friends, bonded by their love for poetry, reunite, their shared reminiscences give rise to a tapestry of interconnected stories. Through their narratives, the audience gains insight into the diverse impact of the pandemic on individuals across different societal strata.
Exploring Themes of Loss and Resilience
Surendra Singh Negi, the playwright, sheds light on the profound impact of COVID-19, particularly on vulnerable segments of society such as domestic workers and migrant laborers. The play’s exploration of death as a concept reflects the harsh reality faced by many during the pandemic, offering a nuanced perspective on the human experience in times of crisis.
Cultural Diversity and Linguistic Fluidity
Set against the backdrop of Delhi, “Terminal 3” embraces linguistic diversity, incorporating snippets of Telugu and Malayalam alongside its primary languages. Negi’s decision to infuse the script with Spanish dialogues, initially conceived for a Latin-American context, adds a unique dimension to the narrative, highlighting the universality of human experiences in the face of adversity.
Audience Reception and Adaptations
Following its debut performance at the EFLU amphitheatre, “Terminal 3” garnered praise from audiences, albeit with some challenges in comprehension due to the multilingual format. To enhance accessibility, subtitles have been incorporated for the upcoming shows, ensuring a more inclusive viewing experience for all.
A Reflective Journey
As “Terminal 3” takes center stage, it invites audiences to embark on a reflective journey through the intricacies of the post-pandemic world. Through its rich tapestry of languages and narratives, the play serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, leaving a lasting impression on hearts and minds alike.
