Bandhamukta in Chitra Natakotsava

The play Bandhamukta is based on the conflict between Vali and Sugriva from the Kishkindha Kanda of the Ramayana.

Believing that Sugriva has betrayed him, Vali drives him out of Kishkindha and takes his wife Ruma under his control. As a result, Sugriva seeks refuge in the Rishyamukha mountains.

While searching for Sita, Rama and Lakshmana meet Sugriva and offer to help him. Following Rama's advice, Sugriva challenges Vali to a battle. During the fight, Rama shoots an arrow at Vali.

Wounded and nearing death, Vali questions the righteousness of Rama's actions. Through Rama's explanation, Vali comes to recognise his own arrogance, abuse of power and mistaken understanding of the situation.

The central theme of Bandhamukta is that human beings are not bound merely by external chains. Arrogance, anger and excessive attachment can also become powerful bonds that imprison the human mind.