On February 5, 2023, Dhayanand Sagar Vidya Samsthe performed Aashadada Ondu Dina at the Sourabha 2023 event, directed by Sahana Somashekhar. Written by Mohan Rakesh, this play is a poignant exploration of the life of the great Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. Set against the backdrop of a Himalayan village, it delves into his complex relationship with Mallika, a village woman who deeply loves him. As Kalidasa leaves to pursue fame at the royal court, the play examines the emotional cost of his ambition, love, and sacrifice. Mallika’s longing and Kalidasa’s internal struggle create a narrative rich with themes of unfulfilled love, loneliness, and the personal toll of success.

The play masterfully portrays the inner conflict between personal desires and societal expectations, emphasizing how ambition can lead to the neglect of personal relationships and individual happiness.