What happens when divinity walks into the ordinary life of a woman torn between love and frustration? Sangeet Dev Babhali, a Marathi musical masterpiece, answers this with grace, music, and soul.
Written and directed by Prajkta Deshmukh, Sangeet Dev Babhali takes the age-old tale of Saint Tukaram and his wife Avali, and reimagines it through a deeply emotional and poetic lens. This is not just a devotional story—it’s a moving exploration of love, sacrifice, jealousy, and spiritual realization.
The Premise
Saint Tukaram, completely immersed in his devotion to Lord Vitthal, often drifts away from worldly responsibilities—leaving behind his wife Avali, who longs for his presence and support. In her quest to find him, she travels through forests and hills, eventually collapsing from exhaustion.
She’s rescued by a mysterious woman named Lakshubai, who tends to her wounds with deep care and compassion. But this woman is no ordinary soul—she is Rukmini, also known as Rakhumai, the celestial consort of Lord Vitthal.
Rakhumai is puzzled. Why would her divine husband leave her side to help a human woman? To understand, she steps into Avali’s shoes—literally—and enters her life.
What unfolds next is a spiritual awakening, not just for Rakhumai, but for every audience member who has ever questioned devotion, identity, or love.
Why This Play Stands Out
- Female-Centric Narrative: Instead of focusing solely on Saint Tukaram, the play brings women—Avali and Rakhumai—to the forefront. Their emotions, conflicts, and transformation form the heart of the story.
- Powerful Performances: Mansi Joshi (Rakhumai) and Shubhangi Sadavarte (Avali) deliver powerhouse performances that are emotional, nuanced, and refreshingly real.
- Soul-Stirring Music: Backed by Anand Oak’s musical direction, the play features both traditional and newly composed abhangs (devotional verses) that resonate long after the curtain falls.
- Minimalist, Symbolic Stage Design: With sets by Pradeep Mulye and lighting by Prafull Dixit, the visual storytelling is subtle yet impactful.
For Devotees and Theatre Lovers Alike
While the story is deeply rooted in devotion, you don’t have to be religious to appreciate Sangeet Dev Babhali. It’s a story about human longing, divine connection, and the emotional labor women carry—whether in a temple or a household.
Where to Watch
The play continues to be staged across Maharashtra and select cities. For upcoming shows and ticket bookings, visit BookMyShow.
Watch the Trailer
Catch a glimpse of the magic here
Whether you’re a lover of Marathi theatre or just looking for something profound and musically rich, Sangeet Dev Babhali deserves your attention.
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