First-ever bio-play on MS Subbulakshmi to be staged in Chennai this weekend

The life of renowned Carnatic vocalist MS Subbulakshmi will be re-played on stage this weekend in the city. The drama, Kaatriniley Varum Geetham, will explore the legendary singer’s journey through music and songs.MV Bhaskar, an advocate by profession and a theatre performer by passion, says, “Kaatriniley Varum Geetham is based on the book by VSV Ramanan and portrays the life of MS Subbulakshmi. This two-hour-and20-minute musical play will feature 25 songs and include new elements for the audience to enjoy.”The bio-play, Bhaskar says, will highlight the transformation of MS Subbulakshmi, who was born into a Devadasi family in Madurai, and went on to become one of the most celebrated names in Carnatic music. “The play also explores the challenges she faced as a woman in a time when women from her background weren’t allowed to become vocalists,” he adds.