MALINI

MALINI

              Malini is a poetic play composed by a Bengali Indian poet, writer and philosopher. Rabindranath Tagore. It is a story of love and hatred. The play deals with a conflict between love and hatred as well as selfish way of thinking and broadmindedness. It is based on the concept that Love in its absolute and pure form is all radiance, all pervading, and all compassionate. They play also shows that petty selfishness assumes the name of love and rules the world with hatred.

              According to the story of the play, Malini, the princess, happens to be influenced by Buddhist way of thinking. As the result of the influence, she emerges as the embodiment of LOVE, PEACE and COMPASSION. This has an adverse effect upon the people following the ancient creeds and dogmas. These people under the leadership of a conservative thinker, Kemankar, demand for the banishment of the princess. Although Kemankar's intimate friend Supriya does not approve the idea of banishment, he is obliged to give his consent.

              Some of the Brahmins, who are the followers of Kemankar, are shocked to hear the support of the army in their agitation. They feel that it smells of rebellion and suggest that they should have victory through their faith. After that, they start invoking the Goddess of their faith. Just then, Malini makes her entrance with a determination to accept the banishment.

              Her appearance has a strange effect upon the people. Although they mistake her for the Goddess of their faith in the beginning, soon they perceive the fact. However, they turn into her followers because of her radiant love, peace and compassion. Kemankar and Supriya are left behind. The former declares his intention of visiting Kashi for the army to attack the kingdom that belongs to Malini's father. Although Supriya appears to be skeptical about the blind faith of Kemankar, soon he is motivated by his friend.