This fall, legendary Indian actress Shabana Azmi has left audiences spellbound across the United States and Canada with her powerful solo performance in “Broken Images.” Written by Girish Karnad and directed by Alyque Padamsee, the play has been presented by Prria Haider Productions and Priyanka Jotwani.
“Broken Images” is an emotionally charged story about two sisters, delving deep into themes of identity, language, and inner conflict. The entire narrative unfolds through a one-woman performance—a challenging format that demands complete command of stage presence and emotional range.
Azmi brilliantly embodies Manjula Sharma, a Hindi short-story writer torn between her personal insecurities and public persona. Through Karnad’s deeply layered writing, she explores self-doubt, ambition, and the impact of societal expectations with remarkable sensitivity.
The North American tour covered major cities such as Trumbull (Connecticut), Chicago, Vancouver, New York, Boston, the Bay Area, Raleigh, and Toronto, offering theater enthusiasts a rare chance to witness Azmi’s artistic brilliance live.
The tour began on September 25, 2025, at Trumbull High School, where Azmi received a standing ovation for her commanding hour-long act. Organized locally by Gayatri Mahesh, the event demonstrated Azmi’s ability to convey deep emotions with quiet intensity.
Her performance—marked by restraint, precision, and emotional truth—captured the audience’s imagination. The play’s interview-style structure required her to switch effortlessly between perspectives and moods, keeping spectators engaged in the protagonist’s inner struggles and revelations.
Critics and audiences alike have praised Azmi’s portrayal as a masterclass in solo theater, applauding her ability to fill a minimalist stage with complex emotional energy. The updated version of the play, with settings in Gurgaon and Kamla Nagar, modernizes the story for today’s India, while maintaining the spirit of Karnad’s original work.
In this adaptation, the protagonist shifts from Manjula Nayak, a Kannada writer, to Manjula Sharma, a Hindi author—symbolizing India’s linguistic diversity and cultural fluidity. Azmi captures this evolution with remarkable nuance, balancing vulnerability with inner strength.
Unlike conventional dramatic performances, Azmi’s portrayal relies on subtle expression rather than overt emotion. Every pause, glance, and movement carries meaning, inviting the audience to reflect on language, identity, and authenticity.
Beyond its artistic brilliance, the tour also carries a humanitarian purpose. Organized by Prria Haider Productions and Priyanka Jotwani, proceeds from the shows support Raëll Padamsee’s CREATE Foundation, which funds educational and creative programs for women, children, and marginalized communities. This philanthropic element transforms the theatrical experience into a movement of compassion and empowerment—aligning perfectly with Azmi’s lifelong commitment to social causes.
Audiences across North America have responded with overwhelming enthusiasm. Many described the play as an awakening experience—both intellectually and emotionally. For some, it marked their return to live theater; for others, it was an introduction to Azmi’s extraordinary artistry.
“Broken Images” traces its roots to Karnad’s original Kannada play “Odakalu Bimba,” first performed at Bangalore’s Ranga Shankara in 2005. Its adaptations in English and Hindi, along with this modern version, demonstrate the timeless relevance of its message.
The play’s exploration of self-perception, truth, and creativity continues to resonate globally. Shabana Azmi’s performance embodies these themes with grace and intensity, reminding audiences of theater’s power to provoke thought and inspire change.
Her North American tour of “Broken Images” is more than just a performance—it’s a celebration of art, empathy, and identity that connects cultures and communities through shared human emotion.
