Satirical play on Mayawati denied permission to be staged

A play perceived as a satire on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati's life has been denied permission for staging by the administration here.

"The play has been denied permission for staging as it violates model code of conduct in the state and its script is against a political leader," District Magistrate Anil Kumar Sagar told PTI.

"My sandal" was scheduled to be staged on January 28 at Rai Umanath Bali auditorium.

"The staging of the play has been denied permission by the district administration verbally," its director Mukesh Verma of Satyapath Rangmandal theatre group said.

The play dates back to 500 years and is about a princess Maya who rules over Mayagarh and feeds her pet elephant on gold and silver.

The princess's sandals, imported from an Arab country, are eaten by her pet who falls sick soon after. In the process of nursing the elephant back to health, its excreta exposes secrets of the kingdom resulting in a revolt.

"Though we write what we see around us, but this play is purely fictional and has no resemblance with any person," Verma said while complaining that he was not given a chance to clarify.

"I have submitted a fresh application with the administration requesting them to review their decision. They should first see the play," he said.

Noting that he was open to modifications in the play if required, Verma said he was willing to submit a CD of the play's rehearsal.

Verma, a journalist by profession, has written a number of social satires including "Anna Mera Baap" and "Satyagrah".