As one of the most respected voices of modern Hindustani literature, Munshi Premchand’s written works have always set an excellent example of intriguing storytelling using simple language. Many of his books have portrayed complicated human emotions with ease. This weekend, St Andrew’s Centre for Philosophy and Performing Arts (SAPP) is conducting a storytelling performance based on the writer’s short story, Eidgah — Premchand ki Kahaani, Dastango ki Zubani. 

It is a children’s drama adapted from the story by Premchand and retold, drawing inspiration from the Dastangoi style of narration. The use of creative sets, background music, songs and rhymes, props, and interaction make the delivery child-friendly and engaging. The story traces the festive journey of a young boy, his trial when faced with ridicule, temptation and bullying; and the moment of victory when he bests the situation using his wit, presence of mind, and imagination. The essence of the story lies in the tender affection shared between a grandparent and grandchild, which makes it most appropriate for children between seven and 12 years of age. Dastangoi has Persian roots, and is a combination of two words: dastan means tale and goi, which means “to tell a tale”. The narrative format borrows from the 13th century Urdu oral storytelling art form.