Tue Feb 04 03:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Mahesh Dattani’s Adaptation of Ancient Sanskrit Play Premieres in Bengaluru
**Bengaluru, February 4, 2025** – A new theatrical production, *Yogi Mattu Bhogi*, a contemporary adaptation of the 7th-century Sanskrit play *Bhagavadajjukam* (The Ascetic and The Courtesan), is making its Bengaluru debut this week. Directed by renowned playwright Mahesh Dattani, the play, translated into Kannada by Vishvajith Madhavamurthy, blends classic Sanskrit text with the physicality of Yakshagana, a traditional dance-theatre form from coastal Karnataka.
Dattani, inspired by a previous US production, chose the play for its comedic elements and exploration of gender, sexuality, and the dismantling of societal binaries. He noted the play’s relevance to contemporary discussions surrounding gender identity and expression. The production incorporates Yakshagana choreography by Guru Bannanje Sanjeeva Suvarna, adding a unique visual and performance dimension. The play also features a diverse cast speaking various Kannada dialects, reflecting the linguistic richness of Karnataka.
*Yogi Mattu Bhogi* will run at several venues across Bengaluru, beginning February 6th at the Bangalore International Centre (BIC) and continuing through February 9th at various locations. Admission is free on a first-come, first-served basis (RSVP required), with tickets also available on BookMyShow.
First Piper 