By Vinod Raghavan*
Muscat Weeps and Cheers for Kannur’s Legacy
Muscat: Under the shimmering chandeliers of the Al Falaj Hotel’s auditorium in Ruwi, Muscat, a wave of nostalgia swept through a packed crowd last night as Kannaya Kannur – The Scenic Echoes of Kannur unfolded its heartfelt tale. The 75-minute play, a vibrant ode to Kerala’s Kannur district, held the audience spellbound, their eyes glistening with emotion and their breaths caught in the grip of breathtaking narratives. As the final scene faded just shy of midnight, the silence shattered into a roaring ovation, a testament to the soulful performances crafted by renowned director Manjulan, a Kerala state award winner.
The play’s heart lay in its celebration of Kannur’s unique distinction as India’s only dowry-free district, a fact that struck a profound chord with the audience. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the crowd as the stage illuminated this social triumph, with poignant scenes depicting marriages rooted in love and equality rather than transaction. “It felt like a quiet revolution unfolding before us,” shared Ajish Nair, who watched alongside his singer wife, Archana, and their two daughters, who sat transfixed for over four hours, their young faces lit with wonder. The dowry-free narrative, woven seamlessly into the play’s fabric, underscored Kannur’s progressive spirit, leaving attendees both proud and reflective.
Directed with finesse by the soft-spoken Manjulan, the production brought first-time actors to life, their raw energy moulded into polished performances that belied their inexperience. Scripted by Rojith Kozhour, the play was a visual feast, with evocative backdrops, cascading lights, and vivid projections that transported viewers to Kannur’s lush landscapes and storied past. Scenes tracing the district’s political legacy—home to India’s first opposition leader, AK Gopalan, and three Kerala Chief Ministers, EK Nayanar, K. Karunakaran, and Pinarayi Vijayan—drew nods of pride. A particularly tender moment, depicting Mahatma Gandhi gifting a mango sapling to social reformer Shree Narayana Guru, stirred hearts, its imagery of a still-fruitful tree symbolising enduring peace.
Yet, not all were entirely swayed. Noted literary figure Somasundaren, accompanied by his wife, praised the play’s emotional depth but felt the songs and dances, while vibrant, stretched the runtime. “A tighter focus on the narrative would’ve made it even sharper,” he mused, his soft voice carrying the weight of a seasoned critic.
Organised by Kannur Konnect, founded by Rekha Prem to unite Kannur natives in Oman, the event was more than a play—it was a celebration of community. The evening also honoured local luminaries, including journalist Kabeer Yousuf, tenth-grader Samhitha Sunil from Indian School Seeb, and Bineesh who participated in the Iron Man were felicitated, alongside Dr. J Retnakumar, N Surendran, and Siraj for their contributions to insurance, printing, and hospitality. As the crowd spilt into Muscat’s balmy night, their chatter echoed with pride and nostalgia, carrying the spirit of Kannur far beyond the auditorium’s walls.
*Senior journalist
Well written Vinod 👏