Gokula Nirgamana

Adolescent and playful Krishna is the heartthrob of Gokula. Endearing everyone and cheering them alike, irrespective of age and gender, he showers love, mesmerises with his soothing, magical, and romantic acts, and immerses himself in platonic love.

Meanwhile, a deceitful invitation is sent through Akroora by Kamsa, seeking Krishna and Balarama to visit Mathura. Krishna is provoked and persuaded by Balarama to leave Gokula for Mathura. In the end, Krishna leaves with a heavy heart, leaving behind his beloved Radha and the flute he considers an inseparable part of himself. The entire village falls into gloom with the news of Krishna's departure from Gokula.

The two-hour play is full of fun and frolic, depicting the bygone cultural grandeur of Gokula in a very simple manner, with subtle messages and a magnificent, magnetic performance by the artistes. This musical extravaganza, with a Sanskrit inclination in its expression, builds an immediate rapport with the audience without any linguistic barrier.

Gokula Nirgamana is a dance drama scripted by Pu. Thi. Narasimhacharya (Pu.Ti.Na), who has rendered rich literary constructions full of rhythmic patterns and movements, and directed by theatre legend B.V. Karanth, with lilting music. Continuing the legacy of Benaka, founded by B.V. Karanth, this classic play has been staged in Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and across Karnataka at many festivals, performed to packed audiences by energetic and enthusiastic Benakites. Well-defined lighting, ethnic sets, and apt costumes, designed by Smt. Prema Karanth, complete the performance.