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Quest for Power in Begum Sumroo

Basavaraj Naikar Professor & Chairman Department of English Karnatak University Dharwad 580 003

Partap Sharma (1939-2011) India and depicted the extraordinary life of happens to be an important Indian English a very bold dancing girl. Although India playwright and novelist apart from being a happens to be land of very rich and varied television artist and theatre person. He is history, it is a big irony that Indian and known for his well-known plays like The Indian English writers have not produced Professor’s War Cry, A Touch of historical literature proportionate to their Brightness and a novel, The Days of history. The field of historical drama Turban . Although not a prolific writer, unfortunately happens to be the poorest. whatever little he has written, has a solid The few historical plays of any worth that quality about it. Being a theatre man, he can be remembered are Sri. Aurobindo’s has a sense of the stagecraft, which enables Baji Prabho , Asif Currimbhoy’s Goa , him to dramatize any chosen material Manohar Malgonkar’s The Line of Mars . successfully. Hence his plays are basically Girish Karnad’s Tughlaq, The Dreams of meant for performance though they are , Kalburgi’s Fall of Kalyana also enjoyable as readable plays. The and Basavaraj Naikar’s A Dreamer of themes of his plays vary from academic to Freedom . Even within the field of social to historical. Whereas The historical drama, the plays dealing with the Professor’s War Cry deals with the colonial period of Indian history are very dilemma of a University Professor, A few. Touch of Brightness delineates the problems of the prostitutes of Bombay. Begum Sumroo happens to be Partap

Sharma’s latest play, which deals with the Now his latest play Begum Sumroo differs political conflicts among the British, from his earlier two plays. In this he has Swish-German and French colonizers and chosen a historical theme of 18 th century the native kings of India. Taking a chunk

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) of colonial Indian history, which is almost Everybody was bothered about his own forgotten how, Partap Sharma puts flesh survival and retention of power. As Nirad and blood into the theme thereby making Chaudhuri explains the situation, the basic the history come alive. Writing a rivalry between the French and the English historical play is not a joke and is certainly coloured all other aspects of their not as easy as that of a contemporary play. commercial and military competitions in Obviously it involves a good deal of India, “The presence of Europeans and of research into the area concerned and the Clive in this political world has now to be reading of relevant and interrelated considered. The conditions just described material. Partap Sharma seems to have did indeed lead to the rise of the British studied the colonial history of India Empire in India, but the first impetus that thoroughly and assimilated it into his pushed Europeans into Indian politics did creative imagination. not come from these, nor from commercial competition, but from a phenomenon of

European history, namely the Anglo- The play takes up a chunk of Indian French rivalry, which had been breaking history of the eighteenth century for its out in the form of intermittent wars since treatment. During that period the British 1688, and the global results of those , the French East India wars.” 1 Company and the other European groups were vying with one another for chances to carry out trade in India with the help of the native kings. When the trading profession It is this colonial period of history, which slowly paved the way for military strength provides the setting of the present play. and consolidation, commerce was soon The characters are all historical and not transformed into political greed for power imaginary. The playwright offers a in terms of acquisition of land, wealth and realistic treatment of the theme by property of native kings. These foreign reconstructing the historical reality in groups began to side with one king against dramatic terms. One difference between another and earn some profit thereby history and historical literature is that strengthening their position in India. Thus whereas history is a macroscopic picture of there were conflicts of interests among the the general trends, movements and events European traders as well as between the on a large scale, historical literature is a Europeans and the native rulers. microscopic picture of things, beings and

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) events and their relationships presented in Partap Sharma has borrowed the character a life-like manner by accentuating the of Walter Reinhardt Sombre from the psychological or emotional and ideological history of 18 th century colonial India. conflicts in a coherent i.e. artistic form. According to historical information Commenting on the pattern and purpose of available so far, “Walter Reinhardt (born c. history, Nirad Chaudhuri says, “There is 1725 in Strasbourg or Treves, died 1778) indeed teleology in history, but it is only was an adventurer and mercenary in India perceptible in retrospect, and is never from the 1760s. His nationality is controlled by free will.” 2 Whereas history uncertain, being given in various sources is permanent and cannot be changed by as Austrian, French, German, any one, historical imagination has the Luxenburger, or Swiss. His nickname freedom to choose the historical theme and Sombre was a nom de guerre , and is more reconstruct it by minimizing certain events commonly used for him, in Indian sources. and maximizing certain others in He was a turncoat, changing sides for accordance with artistic requirements like advantage. When he was employed by fiction and drama. Between fiction and Mir Qasim, Nawab of Bengal, he was drama, the process of selection and blamed for a massacre at Patna. He inclusion and marginalization and attained a position from Shah Alam II, focalization happens to be more restricted briefly held before his death, ruling due to the requirements of theatrical ; through his marriage to Begum presentation of the theme on the stage. Samru, she followed in his place there” 3 Hence the playwright has to be very alert Partap has been successful in bringing out and talented to offer a coherent picture of the major traits of Walter Reinhardt history. Partap Sharma has succeeded in Sombre’s personality like his military this challenging task without any doubt. ability, money mindedness, opportunism

and loyalty to the person, who pays him.

The major characters in the play hail from a number of countries. For example there Begum Samroo, on whom Partap Sharma are English, French, German, Italian, Irish has based his play, was a historical figure and, of course, Indian characters, who in Indian history. Although there are form a cultural mosaic. variant details about her life in historical

records the general traits of her personality are very clear. According to these records,

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“Her birth-year is approximated to be According to historical sources, Begam 1753. She was, perhaps, the daughter, by a Samru/Sumroo was of slight stature, of fair concubine, of Asad Khan, A Muslim of complexion, distinguished by exceptional Arab descent settled in the town of Kutana leadership abilities of uncommon order. or Kotana in the district. On the She possessed a daring, seldom possessed death of her father, she and her mother by her sex – having more than once headed became subject to ill-treatment from her her own troops in action. When she was in half-brother, the legitimate heir of Asad her early teens, she married (or started Khan. Therefore, they moved to living with) a mercenary soldier, Walter about 1760. The official sources of Begum Reinhardt Sombre of Luxembourg, who Samru are conflicting. Some say that was operating in India. Walter Reinhardt Begum’s father was ‘Lutf Ali Khan’, a Sombre, a European mercenary, then 45 decayed nobleman of Arabian descent year-old, came to the red light area and fell living at Kotana. By some, she is for the charms of Farzana, then a girl of supposed to have been from a good 14. A soldier of fortune, Sumroo moved Mughal family, by others she is regarded from Lucknow to Rohilkhand (near as a native of Kashmir and to have been Bareilly), then to Agra, Deeg and sold to Sombre as a slave. Her original Bharatpur and back to the Doab. Farzana name was Zebunnisa. Some say that helped him in those times of intrigue and Begum Sumroo, who is also known as counter-intrigue. Begum was baptized, at Farzana, was the daughter of a dancing the age of about forty, by a Roman girl, who had been taken away from Catholic priest, under the name of Joanna, Chawri Bazar to Delhi to the Doab region on the 7 th of May, 1781. by Asad Khan, a nobleman of Arabian origin (some say he was a Persian, Nawab Farzana was courted by some of the Latif Ali Khan), who made her his second European officers, who were associated wife. After the death of her husband, the with her husband. Among them were Le young widow was driven out of the house Vassoult, a Frenchman, and George by her stepson and returned to Delhi, Thomas, an Irishman. The Begum living for some days near the Kashmere favoured the Frenchman and when, in Gate and then moving on to Jama Masjid 1793, the rumour spread that she had area, where she died, leaving her daughter married him, her troops mutinied. The in the care of Khanum Jan, a tawaif of couple sought to escape secretly by night – Chawri Bazar. That was in 1760.” 4 Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 31

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Le Vassoult on horseback and the Begum Walter Reinhardt Sombre, from his first in a palanquin. Misinformed that Le wife. 5

Vassoult had been shot, she stabbed *** herself but survived. Her lover, however, The play begins with Swiss-German died of self-inflicted wound to the head. Colonel Walter Reinhardt Sombre in The Begum, though only 4-1/2 feet tall, Moghul attire, congratulating his brigade wore a turban and rode on horseback as for firing eighteen cannons with precision. she had led her troops to battle. So He is conscious and proud of his European invincible did she seem that the identity and expresses his rivalry with and superstitious spread the word that she was hatred for the British East India Company. a witch, who could destroy her enemies by He is eager to please Mir Kasim, the throwing her cloak towards them. Nawab Governor of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa. So the colonial situation of the 18 th On the death of her husband Walter century India is revealed through his Reinhardt, she succeeded to his words:

Principality yielding about 90,000 Pounds per annum, and on the introduction of Gentlemen, congratulations! I asked for all British Rule in 1803 in North India, she eighteen cannon of our brigade to be fired managed to retain her possessions as an as one and you have done it with a Independent Ruler. Her conduct in the precision that must have been noted all internal management of her estate was through the city of Patna and especially by highly admirable. Over a period of time our Commander-in-Chief – His Highness she became a powerful lady of North Mir Kasim, Nawab of Bengal, Bihar and India, ruling a large area from Sardhana, Orissa. It makes my heart proud. ( Thumps . Her support was even his chest with his gloved fist ) It is a Swiss- acknowledged by the Mughal Emperor German heart, though the clothes in which Shah Alam II. The British East India you see me are Indian. Make no mistakes Company considered her as a threat to its about that. I love being here in Hindustan territorial ambitions in undivided India. but the demands I make of you, as military She died at Sardhana, the capital of her men are European. To be exact, Swiss Principality, in January 1837 at the age of German. I expect nothing less than the 85, bequeathing the greater part of her efficiency of the finest clock. Cold, clear, property to Dyce, who descended from

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) unflinching, disciplined action. The recent Chief, Mir Kasim, about… various matters victory of the Imperial Bengal army over including your arrears of pay. But it was the rebel forces of the British East India not a good moment to speak to him. The Company -- in which we took fifty-two treasury has been emptied three times to British prisoners – was largely due to our meet the demands of that scoundrel Clive. brigade. 6 And now, led by him, the English refuse to pay taxes or customs duties. They are

trying to provoke an all-out war in the But his soldiers do not relish his hope of defeating Mir Kasim. If they congratulations, as they are worried about succeed, they will install some puppet in their salary, which is due for the last three his place. Then they can pass what laws months. (It may be noted incidentally that they like, favouring their own greed. They many native kings like Shah Alam, may even get the Emperor of Delhi to and others in Indian history recognize an Englishman as Nawab were all worried about the salary to be paid Governor of Bengal! (P.4) to their soldiers. Their quest for political power depended upon the maintenance of an army and had to arrange for the timely But the soldiers are not satisfied with disbursal of salary to the soldiers. Their Reinhardt’s answer. Captain Saleur speaks inability to pay their soldiers involved for his colleagues, “Colonel! Our wages them into further troubles.) This general are not a trifling matter. We must be paid! pattern may be seen in the present play … I speak for all the men, 2700 Indians also. Major Benedict explains it to him and 273 Europeans. We are soldiers. We convincingly, “Colonel, they need more cannot fight on empty stomachs” (P.5). than compliments. They haven’t been paid Reinhardt considers it almost as a ‘mutiny for three months. They are upset” (P.4). of my troops.’ He expresses his dilemma But Reinhardt explains the difficulty with of dealing with Mir Kasim, who is the regard to the arrears of pay caused by the enemy of the British East India Company, British East India Company – especially “But in order to obtain our wages – and by Clive: double – we have to fulfill an order given by Mir Kasim that is rather difficult to

carry out. I have been thinking about it. As you can see from my formal attire, I He wants us to take an action… that I am have just been to see our Commander-in- not sure is necessary” (P.5). But Saleur, on

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) behalf of his soldiers, wants to offer a how Major Jadhav and Captain Ramzan ‘burning reminder’ to Reinhardt. Benedict Ali refuse to kill the fifty-one English tells him: prisoners unless the latter are armed first.

BENEDICT: The men want you tied But Reinhardt expresses his anger about astride the hot cannon without your corruption in India and the native kings’ distrust of Europeans’ mutual rivalry: trousers.

REINHARDT: Oh me. They want to burn my balls! The trouble is, this country is rotten with

BENEDICT: Oh yes. I’m afraid you have corruption. And the stink of decay draws no choice, Sir. (P.6) maggots from all over the world. A white man, who comes East has to prove he’s not

just another greedy hypocrite mouthing Then they rush at him, pick him up and set pieties while using his military ability to him down astride the cannon. He grimaces, rob even the poorest simply because they opens his mouth, and screams silently. are not white. So Mir Kasim admires our They quickly tie him up in position and brigade but doesn’t trust it. We have the accuse him of complicity with Mir Kasim. largest contingent of Europeans in this They release him only after he promises to army. He calls them ‘riff-raff from the give them double wages the next morning. four quarters.’ He fears that confronting Reinhardt’s thighs are burned and his legs the English, they may desert rather than are roasted. He gets into his trousers fight fellow-Westerners (P.11). painfully. But Benedict tells Reinhardt that there is a doctor namely Dr. Fullerton Reinhardt tells Benedict that Mir Kasim among the English prisoners and that his has held up their salary until they have services may be sought. Reinhardt asks killed the fifty-one English prisoners “To Benedict to have Dr. Fullerton brought to his house so that he might treat him demonstrate conclusively that the English properly. will never pardon us. To commit so grievous an action against them that even

their priests would not give us absolution. Reinhardt comments contemptuously on (A pause. Clutches his forehead ) O God, the Indian army, “An army in India is like must I do this?” (P.11) He orders Benedict a moving bazaar, full of gossip. And to meet him at 9 P.M. along with Saleur slander” (P.10). Then Benedict tells him Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 34

LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) and Pauli and not to bring any Indian Saleur comments on him, “Father, you are sepoys or officers, as they have no grit for so steeped in good that perhaps you do not these things. know the nature of evil” (P.22). Saleur

fears for his soul and kisses the crucifix around Gregorio’s neck. The contrast Reinhardt is a mercenary, who has come to between Reinhardt and Saleur is very India to earn his livelihood. His loyalty is clear. Whereas Saleur is a religious and to those native kings, who pay him the conscientious soldier, Reinhardt is an wages. Now he is loyal to Mir Kasim, unscrupulous mercenary soldier. who is against the British East India

Company. The native kings of India take the help of either the British East India By that time Reinhardt comes there and Company or the French East India finds that Saleur is in a blue funk. He Company according to the situation. In thinks that in that condition Saleur is a order to please Mir Kasim, Reinhardt has liability to the mission and dismisses him, to kill the fifty-one English prisoners. “I absolve you… Now fuck off and sleep

peacefully while we got on with the job” (P.24). But Saleur being a conscientious In the colonial context of India most of the soldier does not like the idea of anyone European mercenary soldiers brought with killing the unarmed English prisoners, them religious men also with them. Thus “They are unarmed. It’s murder. It’s a sword and bible were two inextricable crime” (P.24). But Reinhardt considers the companions, which accompanied the English prisoners as criminals. He gives European adventurers. For example Father the example of the ‘bastard’ Ellis, who Gregorio is always with Reinhardt. smuggled in goods, avoiding duty. So he Although Reinhardt is an unscrupulous opines, “These fifty one officers took part soldier, his assistant Saleur, who is a in an act of open rebellion against the French man, is very religious in his established order. They behaved temperament. He feels so sad to learn that criminally. Now that they have been the cross that he wears on his chest has overwhelmed, they want to be treated as fallen off and he, therefore, feels prisoners of war for a criminal act” (P.25). abandoned. Father Gregorio tries to Even then Saleur refuses to kill them. console him, “The cross is only a symbol. Reinhardt bursts into anger and shouts at The Lord is always with us” (P.22). But him, “You sniveling, whimpering fool!

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(Slaps him ) Have you not the courage to be two and depicted them as uninhibited the hand of justice?” (P.25) sexual partners. The originality of Partap

Sarma lies in giving life to the man- woman relationship between Ghulam Reinhardt explains his systematically cruel Kadir and Farzana in a convincing manner and cunning plan to Benedict. He suggests and by following the law of probability. that no gun fire should be used, but that He has also invented the characters like the prisoners should be invited to his Gauri and Zulekha, who are the library at night after dinner and put to companions of Farzana in he brothel. The sword one by one, “I decide to splatter a sexual jealousy between Farzana and the library with blood. I grab the present and other two girls has been presented in a let history take care of itself” (P.27). He, very acceptable and convincing manner. obviously, accomplishes the cruel task just Ghulam Kadir making use of his sexual to please Mir Kasim. Being a mercenary, partner Farzana is, of course, in line with he is willing to fight for those who pay the intrigues and conspiracies so common him his salary. The slaughter of the fifty- in Indian history or history of any other one English prisoners is not shown on the country. It is the rivalry between the stage in keeping with the convention of the French East India Company and the stagecraft. But it is taken to have taken British East India Company that Ghulam place as desired by Reinhardt. Kadir explains to the nautch girl, Farzana, “As you know, Clive and the British were The rivalry between the French East India so infuriated at the massacre of the English Company and the English East India prisoners at Patna that they put everything Company is a well-known fact in the in the field to destroy Mir. Kassim. His colonial history of India. The native kings forces were decimated at the battle of had to take the help of either of these to Buxar” (P.30). Ghulam Kadir knows that fight against the other. Ghulam Kadir is Reinhardt intends to loot the Capital city aware of this rivalry between the two (Delhi) before the British get there. He, companies. The historical sources are therefore, tells Farzana, “Col. Walter silent about the sexual relationship Reinhardt Sumroo is the most efficient between Ghulam Kadir and Farzana, the commanding officer in all of India. I want nautch girl. But Partap Sarma has put flesh him on my side… I am prepared to pay and blood in the relationship between the whatever he asks. In gold and jewels, if he doesn’t trust money” (P.31). Ghulam Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 36

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Kadir persuades his beloved dancing girl the money, the treasure, the wealth, the Farzana to convey his invitation to power. I’m the soldier of fortune” (P.45). Reinhardt Sumroo by promising an offer Farzana reveals herself not as an ordinary of precious gold ornaments: dancing girl, but as a girl with lots of

brains. She suggests to him not to join Ghulam Kadir as an ally, although she has Sumroo is there outside the city, waiting to brought the message from him to that ransack it. You can have all this. ( He effect. On the contrary she kindles some takes a handful of glittering ornaments out ambition in Reinhardt to have his own of his pocket. She reaches for them. He territory and revenue. She even advises draws them back. ) But first, bring me back him to have a policy or philosophy and a sign that you’ve met him and conveyed fight for the Emperor of Hindustan (Shah my message. Bring me back his sword, Alam II) so that he can possess a jagir . the sword of massacre. I know it bears his Reinhardt has been helping Jawahir Singh initials – W.R.S. Bring me the sword and to lay siege to Delhi and finds it rather you’ll be rich. By his answer I shall know difficult to befriend the enemy i.e. whether he intends to be my ally or my Emperor of Hindustan. But like a female enemy” (P.36). Chanakya, she advises him to follow a clever strategy, “If you ask the Emperor’s Farzana wants to oblige Ghulam Kadir, as pardon, I’m sure you’ll receive it because her mother and she need the money. She your brigade could be valuable in his wants to go to Reinhardt’s camp in the service” (P.47). Reinhardt wonders at her guise of a man and therefore, takes political wisdom and exclaims, “You’re an Ghulam Kadir’s turban and cloak. She amazing person” (P.47). Farzana takes cuts a bush and creeps up using it for cover Reinhardt’s sword as a token of her secret and reaches the tent of Reinhardt. She meeting with him in order to satisfy reveals her real identity to Reinhardt and Ghulam Kadir. Before leaving his tent, conveys the message of Ghulam Kadir to she awakens his ambition by praising his him. Ghulam Kadir has invited Reinhardt military talent, “I know you’ll make a fine to join him as an ally. Initially Reinhardt General in the service of the Emperor” does not understand the implications of (P.52). Reinhardt begins to dream about this alliance. He is very honest and frank himself as a General, “General Reinhardt about his mercenary approach, “I fight for Sombre. No. The Indians say Sumroo. General Reinhardt Sumroo. (Smokes) Hm. Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 37

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General Sumroo” (P.52). Farzana’s intercepted the letter from the English betrayal of Ghulam Kadir in spite of Resident at Delhi to Jawahir Singh. He receiving the fat reward of gold ornaments says, “It says, though you may help from him testifies to her opportunistic Jawahir Singh and his Jats to take Delhi, behaviour. Her successful attempt to you are to be handed over to the East India change Reinhardt’s loyalty to Shah Alam Company. The English want justice for from that to Mir Kasim is evidence of her the murder by you personally, of fifty-one practical political wisdom, which is British officers… Major Benedict has generally rare in women. Although she has identified you… Apparently he’s gone been a dancing girl or courtesan over to the English side” (P.37). Reinhardt professionally, she is not satisfied being an is shocked and enraged by Benedict’s object of sex and entertainment for men, betrayal. He bursts out, “Damned but rises above that level and becomes a shweinhundt! I wondered where he had politician of great talent. Partap Sharma vanished after the battle of Buxar. In all has succeeded in giving a clear motivation that confusion, we even thought he in the characterization of Farzana, which is might’ve been killed or taken prisoner. very convincing from the point of view of I… I grieved for him. Damn it! So he’s dramatic presentation. But historical negotiated a pardon for himself?” (P.37) records show the fact that Reinhardt Saleur continues to tell him the details of Sumroo, a European mercenary, then 45 the letter, “Obviously, sir, it could be year old, came to the red light area and fell argued that you massacred those British for the charms of Farzana, then a girl of officers – as the dispatch states – after 14. 7 Obviously, Partap Sarma has taken taking away their knives and forks and liberty with history by making her an cutlery and inviting them, one at a time, instrument of Ghulam Kadir’s conspiracy into a room --. But as a deserter… you are and intrigue. to be hunted down and hanged and cut

loose before you are dead and disemboweled and quartered” (P.38). Just before his meeting with the Reinhardt, obviously, becomes more alert dancing girl, Farzana and his ambition about his safety and security. being aroused, Reinhardt has the bitter experience of being betrayed by his close friend benedict to the authorities of the Reinhardt’s sense of insecurity English East India Company. Saleur has (caused by the English Resident’s decision

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) to kill him) is combined with his newly protection from the English, “Your awakened ambition of becoming a Majesty. The differences between the General, thanks to Farzana. English and me run deep. May I request

from you, a royal assurance that no matter what, you will not have me handed over to The second act shows the Hall of Private the English?” (P.57) Of course, the Audience, wherein Shah Alam, the Emperor promises him full protection. Emperor of Hindustan grants a jagir to Reinhardt. As Mansur Ali, the Chief Steward of the Palace announces, “Your Secondly, Reinhardt is promoted as a Majesty. The first business is … ( He General. As Mansur Ali announces, “On scans the scroll )… to confirm the grant of the recommendation of His Excellency a jagir in the fertile Gangetic Doab Najaf Khan, Commander-in-Chief of the between the rivers Ganga and Jumna Imperial Forces, His Majesty is pleased to stretching from the districts of confer on Col Walter Reinhardt Sumroo, Muzaffarnagar to Aligarh on your the rank of General” (P.57). Finally he is Majesty’s loyal subject and military officer also made the Governor of Agra. Mansur Walter Reinhardt Sumroo” (P.54). Ali announces, “As reward, in Reinhardt Sombre receives the document consequence of his victory over the rebel of the grant from the Emperor, thanks him led by , who was humbly and promises to oblige him in both killed on the battlefield, General Sumroo is military and civil matters. When the appointed Governor of Agra” (P.58). Thus Emperor asks Reinhardt about his choice Reinhardt has been able to have triple of the seat of administration, Reinhardt promotion all because of his success as a seems to be uncertain, but his new (and military man. second) wife Farzana volunteers to say that it will be at Sardhana, which is a few miles Reinhardt’s luck has turned. He has grown away from Meerut. The Emperor is so from a mercenary soldier to the Governor much impressed by Farzana’s devotion to of Agra. He is politically alerted and the throne that he considers her as his own educated by the dancing girl, Farzana. daughter and bestows the title, Zebun That is why he has brought Ghulam Kadir Nissa, the Ornament of Her Kind. as a prisoner to Shah Alam’s court. Shah Reinhardt’s fear of the English Resident Alam wants to punish Ghulam Kadir for goads him to request the Emperor for

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) his conspiracy against the throne. He but for reasons of State. You would not shouts angrily at Ghulam Kadir, “You ate want the people in your far-off province of our salt and continued to conspire against Rohilkhand to say, ‘Look at this! They us. Did you not find a way to get hold of killed the father on the battlefield and the royal Seal? Do not lie -- on pain of found an excuse to kill the son in the death. We have proof. You were caught palace.’ It may cause disquiet” (P.60). with the Seal on your person” (P.58). He Then the Emperor consults General continues to complain against him, “You Reinhardt Sombre about what kind of tried to use it to grant imperial favours. punishment should be given to his Your aim was to build alliances and prisoner. Reinhardt suggests, “If his life is destroy us… Did you not attempt to to be spared there is only one way to defraud the Imperial Treasury? … Did you thwart his ambition. ( Glances at Farzana. not suggest to some ladies of the royal Then .) Deprive him of the dynasty he blood that, deposing us, you would sire an wishes to found and the ability to hold out imperial dynasty? … You seduced a hope to women! Have him castrated, sire. number of ladies of the court with the sole Turn him into a eunuch. And set him free” aim of engineering our ruin and death”(Pp. (P.60). Ghulam Kadir is shocked by the 58-59). After pointing out Ghulam Kadir’s suggestion, “Oh no. Not that. This is conspiratorial acts, Shah Alam asks him worse than death! Consider again, Your what punishment he should mete out to the Majesty. Do not reduce me to the latter. Ghulam Kadir helplessly requests laughing stock of other men. I’m a Pathan, the Emperor to spare his life and seeks his a ” (P.60). Although Zuleka and forgiveness and mercy. The people Gauri request Farzana to have the sentence gathered in the Hall of Private Audience changed, Farzana does not oblige them and are apprehensive that Ghulam Kadir will says, “I no longer want to marry him” be sentenced with death. Gauri and Zuleka (P.61). So the Emperor orders, “Remove (the two dancing girls and erstwhile him from our presence. Let the sentence companions of Farzana) therefore, request be carried out without delay” (P.61). Farzana to prevent his death. Ghulam Kadir had used Farzana as an Consequently Farzana interferes and object of his sexual enjoyment, but had not requests the Emperor to punish him with shown any inclination to marry her. something other than death, “Punish him, Farzana did not want his mere lust for her Your Majesty. But spare his life. I … I but wanted something lasting, i.e. love. urge this not out of personal consideration He had rejected her suggestion of marriage Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 40

LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) outright. Farzana knew that he had his Farzana has now married Reinhardt brains between his thighs and made love to Sombre and been radiant since then. She her or other women like an animal. That is does not care for Ghulam’s hatred towards why she disliked him and betrayed him to her. She begins to exercise her political Walter Reinhardt Sombre, whom she wisdom, a quality that is rare in the finally married. common run of women. She gets the map of Sardhana ready. She wants to advise

the farmers of her jagir what is most The castration of Ghulam Kadir by Shah profitable for them to grow and why. She Akam II is an interesting event in the play, clarifies to Pauli, “We are not making war. but historical records do not mention it at We are demarcating peace. And profit” all. According to historical records, (P.64). Reinhardt is basically a mercenary Ghulam Kadir did not trust the Hindus like soldier leading a nomadic life, living in Sindhia. He wanted to fight with the tents and earning his livelihood. That is Marathas like Sindhia but Shah Alam did why he asks his new and second wife not permit him to do so. Ghulam Kadir Farzana, “Can’t you understand that our and Ismail Beg sent their envoys (wakil prosperity lies in battle?” (P.64) His words Jawahir Nath and Mir Jina) and urged the represent the mercenary motives of all the Emperor to guard the faith of Islam and to European Companies, who came to India seek the help of Infidels. But the Emperor in the early colonial period. All the did not yield to their suggestion. “The adventures of these Europeans were Emperor in reply cited Ghulam Kadir’s motivated by the amassment of money or various acts of disloyalty and breaches of wealth. But Farzana’s policy and faith saying, ‘when he fired cannon balls philosophy are diametrically opposed to on the fort, probably I was not a those of Reinhardt Sombre. She wants to Mussalman!’ Then he called the Qazi-ul- build a palace in Sardhana, which is the qazat and asked, ‘what is the punishment newly acquired jagir. She orders Pauli to of the man, who fires on his King?’ explain to her husband the position and the Answer, ‘stone him to death.’ The two privileges that are granted to him by the envoys returned baffled to their masters.” 8 Emperor, Accordingly Pauli explains to Ghulam Kadir’s hatred of Hindus and Reinhardt, “What the begum is trying to playing with the communal feelings of the say, Sir, is that in Agra you are paid for Emperor have not been highlighted by your services as Governor. Here in Partap Sarma, but are suppressed. Sardhana and all this jagir you are the Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 41

LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) ruler” (P.65). Farzana wants to increase the looking after the building of the church. income of the jagir through the Although she is not a Christian by birth, improvement of agriculture by guiding and she is a Christian in spirit. Saleur advising the farmers. But Reinhardt, who explains, “But she is, she is. In her heart, has a typical soldier’s attitude to life, does she is. She cares that your Christian not approve of her ideas, “Ach, it’s a waste officers too must have a place to worship of a fighting man’s time. I say, leave and sing hymns in praise of the Lord” farming to the farmers. If we need more (P.68). Major Saleur tells Reinhardt that money we just raise it through taxes like Begum Farzana has requested for some everyone else” (P.66). But Farzana is so relics from Rome to be placed in the new practical in her approach that she wants to basilica. Not only that. She has also been give it the dignity of a policy and execute taking care of Reinhardt’s elder wife and it seriously, “No! I will not increase taxes. her son by him. She has plans of I will lower them. We will increase the constructing a haveli in front of the Red harvests. We will provide seeds. We will Fort in Delhi to be used as a guest house irrigate the whole region. We will build whenever they go to Delhi. She even roads to bring in the produce. We will suggests to Reinhardt, “And then, through protect the population against thefts and the British Resident in Delhi, you must crimes. We will use your abilities, General make peace with the English” (P.70). But Sumroo, to defend the people against raids he says it is impossible. But she wants to of envious armies. This is our policy, turn the impossible into the possible. She General, and the people must know it so wants to have a ballroom in their palace that they feel safe and secure. Now that for officers and their wives to dance. you have a territory, it’s high time you had Reinhardt yields to her plans and ideas a policy” (P.66). But Reinhardt cannot gradually. adjust himself to this new way of life. He says, “None of the other European Ghulam Kadir, who has been castrated into mercenaries in Hindustan waste time on a eunuch, has been sharpening his dagger such things. They live like nomads. against the Emperor, Shah Alam. Ghulam Soldiers moving from place to place, Kadir has invited another eunuch Mansur taking what they can …” (P.67). Farzana Ali, the Chief Advisor to the Emperor, to a has started behaving in an overconfident brothel, where he conspires against the and overriding manner. She has promoted Emperor. He suggests to Mansur Ali, “I Saleur to a Major because he has been Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 42

LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) did not call you here because you are like in flames in order to come to the rescue of me but because there’s something we can Delhi? No, that night they’ll be far too do together… You and I will rule -- busy” (P.76). But when Mansur Ali tells together. All Hindustan will grovel at him that Sumroo’s camp is not easy to your feet. It will not have seen a sword penetrate, Ghulam Kadir says that it is such as mine” (P.75). He suggests to already penetrated by the presence of two Mansur Ali, “First, we will take over only women there. Ghulam Kadir jokingly the palace – we will strike at the very heart praises himself, “Aren’t I a fucking of Delhi and Hindustan… I will camp with genius?” Mansur Ali corrects him by my force across the river Jumna. On the complementing him, “You used to be that. appointed night, my men and I will cross Now you’re just a genius” (P.77). Such over in boats. Meanwhile, you will unlock intrigues and conspiracies are very the south-east gate on the river. And we common in the Indian history. will gain entrance to the palace and capture the Emperor” (P.75). But Mansur Ghulam Kadir’s conspiracy comes into Ali expresses his doubt about such a operation very systematically. Reinhardt possibility. He tells Ghulam Kadir that the is poisoned by somebody. The doctor has sentries guarding the palace of the advised him not to stir out. But Reinhardt Emperor are not Muslims, but Marathas wants to ride to Delhi in order to help and placed there by Sindhia. But Ghulam protect the Emperor of Delhi. Father Kadir is so clever that he suggests to Gregorio also dissuades him from going, Mansur Ali to insinuate that he (Ghulam “Walter, I forbid it. In the name of God, I Kadir) would be made Chief Noble and forbid you. In your condition, you cannot guard the Emperor better. He thinks that think of marching to Delhi. Just this once the Emperor is in his control, he can afternoon you were unconscious. have all the wealth of Delhi. When Whoever poisoned your food is trying to Mansur Ali expresses his doubt about kill you” (P.79). But Reinhardt insists on Governor Sumroo and his soldiers coming going to Delhi. Before that he climbs the to the rescue of the Emperor of Delhi, rampart and addresses the soldiers of his Ghulam Kadir answers him, “No fear of brigade in a spirited manner, that. His troops will be putting out the biggest fire they’ve ever seen -- in their own barracks. Do you think his soldiers will leave their women and children to die Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 43

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Soldiers of Sumroo brigade! I am not used remarkable presence of mind in such a dire to mincing words. Less than fifteen situation. By this time she hears another minutes ago, we received a message from shocking news that the barracks are His Majesty the Emperor informing us that burning. In spite of the sorrow and shock an army of Rohillas under the command of caused by the unexpected death of her Ghulam Kadir is now encamped facing the husband by treacherous poisoning and far across the river Jumna. His from losing her courage, Farzana takes Majesty apprehends danger not only to the almost a manly decision and exhorts her city of Delhi but to the royal throne itself. soldiers, “Our General never allowed The attempt of the enemy to assassinate himself to be defeated. In that spirit, we me by poisoning is obviously intended to will now win over this enemy and these prevent us from going to the rescue of circumstances. Tomorrow at dawn we Delhi. But Ghulam Kadir has march to Delhi to deal with Ghulam Kadir. miscalculated. As long as there is breath Tonight, we form a human chain to deal in my body, as long as I can mount my with this inferno. Soldiers of the Sumroo horse, I will ride. But if I cannot, the Brigade, prepare for action” (P.85). She brigade will follow the next person in the orders Saleur to take over. Accordingly chain of command. That is the code of our Saleur asks his soldiers to form a human brigade. That is the spirit… that is the chain from the reservoir to the barracks spirit that guides us (P.80). and begin passing down buckets of water

to put off the fire. Then she asks Father Gregorio to make arrangements for the But he cannot continue to speak as he funeral of General Reinhardt Sombre. She staggers. By that time Begum Farzana remembers her husband and almost prays returns and is shocked to learn about his to him, “My General, give me the courage being poisoned. She wants to get a doctor, to go on without you” (P.85). but he replies, “I sent him away. I am beyond the help of doctor or priest. Go. Be firm. Take control or the brigade may Farzana’s extraordinary presence of mind, revolt. You are now in command. quick and right decisions, military tactics Remember that. Be decisive… But really, and control of private sorrow etc are you must take charge at once. Don’t indeed very admirable in a woman. She is delay” (P.82). He dies after declaring his easily comparable to heroic women like love for Farzana. Farzaba shows a Rani Mallamma of Belavadi (of 17 th C.)

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) and Rani Chennamma of Kittur Kingdom handed. Zuleka accuses Farzana, “You’re in Karnataka (of 18 th c.), who took similar still only a slut. A high-class slut” (P.91). decisions to face the enemy after the death Farzana maintains her cool and accuses of their husbands. Farzana, like these two her, “You are in touch with… Ghulam queens, happens to be an embodiment of Kadir? … I trusted you. Gave you female heroism. everything. Security. Comfort. Trusted you as my family… You betrayed me.

You poisoned my husband. You set fire to By the time Saleur rushes in there and the barracks” (P.92). Obviously Ghulam conveys another shocking news that Kadir, who is proved to be a treacherous Ghulam Kadir with a small band of man in the Indian history, has acted soldiers has entered the fort through according to his true nature by using the treachery, attacking the palace and two dancing girls by bribing them heavily suggests that they should refrain from any for his conspiracy against both Begum provocative action. But Begum Farzana Farzana and Shah Alam. His sole does not want to let down the Emperor of intention is to prevent Begum Farzana Delhi. She bursts out, “What! And leave from going to Delhi to protect Shah Alam the Emperor to his fate? That was not the from his own treachery. Zuleka and way of General Sumroo. Send word to Gauri’s treachery is motivated by sexual Shah Alam that Begum Sumroo and the jealousy for Farzana, who was her former brigade are coming to the rescue. And companion dancer and by sexual traffic request Mahadji Sindhia to reinforce our with Ghulam Kadir and a general attack. ( Saleur is stunned ) Go at once. Do opportunism. as I say! ( He salutes and goes )” (P.86). By that time Pauli comes and informs her that the two, who set fire to the barracks are After the death of Reinhardt Sombre, a arrested and that they are two women, who Frenchman Le Vessault joins Begum happen to be close companions of hers. Sumroo’s Brigade and raised a legal and The feminine jealousy and conspiracy go religious question about her inheritance of together in this context. Farzana’s former her husband’s jagir . He points out that she companions Gauri and Zuleka have been is not a Catholic, “General Sombre was a employed by Ghulam Kadir to set fire to Catholic. You are not. Nor is Zaffryab the barracks, by smearing them with ghee. Khan… Even here you have Islamic Law, They are arrested as they are caught red- Hindu Law, Christian Law. The fact is,

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) the Church of Rome recognizes only crown me Emperor” (P.94). He asks Shah Catholics. Think about it. The General Alam, “Where have you hidden your must have some relatives in Germany, treasure?” (P.94) Shah Alam replies, “I tell Switzerland, Europe. All Catholics. you, there is none” (P.94). But Mansur (shrugs ) Someone may like to own a Ali, who has treacherously ganged up with kingdom in India… With the blessings of Ghulam Kadir says giggling, “Everyone the Church” (P.89). Now alerted by his knows it’s here somewhere in the Red warning, Begum Sumroo requests Father Fort” (P.94). Ghulam Kadir is angry to Gregorio, “Father. I would like you to note that, “My men here dug everywhere baptize me and Zaffaryab Khan at the first and found nothing” (P.94). Ghulam Kadir opportunity… Think up a good Christian exhibits his beastly cruelty and robs Shah name for me. Something like Farzana” Alam of his footwear studded with jewels (P.90). Father Gregorio suggests a and even his bracelet with a gold locket. Catholic name, Johanna and Adds Nobilis He says, “I wish I could kill you. ( Takes to make it sound impressive. Now she out his dagger ) But then perhaps it’s better assumes a new and Christian name, to hack you bit by bit” (P.95). The height Johanna Nobilis Sumroo thereby of his inhuman cruelty may be seen in his becoming legally acceptable to the Roman blinding both the eyes of Shah Alam by Catholic Church. This act only proves how stabbing them, religion (her Islam) is not a problem for her as it is part of her political ambition GHULAM: ( Pushing him down ) Where and does not prevent her from pursuing her shall we begin then? A mark on the quest for political power. forehead? Or a stab in the eye?

SHAH ALAM: No! No! Ghulam Kadir has succeeded in his GHULAM: Yes, that! ( He stabs him in the conspiracy with Mansur Ali against Shah eye. ) Alam. He sits on the throne of Delhi and mocks at Shah Alam. He has robbed all SHAH ALAM: Ohhh. You’ve taken out gold and jewels from the palace and insults my eye.

Shah Alam in a variety of ways, “By GHULAM: I should’ve done it with my stages, by stages, Shah Alam. You had no fingers. That would make a better picture. choice but to make me Chief Noble. Soon (Flings away the dagger. Sitting astride the nobles will have no choice but to the prone Shah Alam ) Call the court

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) painter! I want a picture done like this – According to history, it was Ghulam “Emperor Shah Alam being blinded by Kadir’s soldiers, who blinded Shah Alam Ghulam Kadir” (P.96). and not Kadir himself. Partap Sharma has

tried to accentuate Ghulam Kadir’s beastliness, cruelty and vindictiveness by Partap Sarma’s presentation of Ghulam taking liberty with history as well as with Kadir’s beastliness in blinding the eyes of the dramatic conventions. Shah Alam’s Shah Alam II is part of direct action reference to the Quran is unfortunately performed on the stage. This is one of the missing in Partap Sarma’s play. The very shocking and odious scenes in the playwright seems to have borrowed his play contributing to the odious sentiment material from popular sources like the (bibhatsa rasa ) but prohibited by Bharata following one: in his Natyasastra . One feels that Partap Sarma should have easily avoided this event in the scene. Also it runs counter to So, in 1765, Clive had to legalize the the historical facts. As Jadunath Sarkar, the Company’s right to manage the finances of famous historical has written in his date- Bengal by taking a grant from Shah Alam. wise entry, But in 1788, i.e. twenty-three years after this exercise of legal right, Shah Alam was

seized in his own palace by a Ruhela “(10 th August, 1788) Qadir signals to his (Afghan) soldier of fortune and freebooter, Ruhelas to extract the eyes of the Emperor. who blew tobacco smoke into his mouth, Shah Alam said, ‘O nimak-haram ! No man and afterwards blinded him. He asked: has yet done such acts of ingratitude as ‘Emperor, can you see anything now?’ The you have done. I read the Quran, do not blind man replied” ‘Yes, the Quran deprive me of my eyes. If you so wish, between you and me!’ The plunderer kill me.’ Then the Ruhellas crowded insulted and tortured the princesses, some together and cut out His Majesty’s two of whom died of hunger and thirst. He eyes with their waist-daggers. At that time also sent for the court painter to paint a His Majesty uttered no other word than the picture of himself – sitting on the chest of name of God; he did not even cry out Ah! the emperor and gouging out his eyes. His condition cannot be described. 9 Afterwards the freebooter was put to flight and captured, and his eyes were brought to

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LITSEARCH www.litsearch.in ISSN 2277-6990 (Print) the blind emperor, who fondled them with simply because of his great admiration for his fingers. 10 the amazing woman, Begum Sumroo,

GEORGE: But the way you avoided the Rohilla army on the Jumna. Ingenious. When Ghulam Kadir is arrogating and that You could’ve been stopped there for days. at the height of his cruelty, Manur Ali tells him the disconcerting news that they are You came instead, over the ridge, from the under attack by Begum Sumroo’s army. North West. Amazing! Ghulam Kadir and Mansur Ali are SHAH ALAM: Was it? frightened by the situation and escape from GEORGE: Maginficent! She just lined up there. Shah Alam is happy to know that her cannon outside the fort, bombarded Farzana Sumroo has come to his rescue. them to cause more fear than damage and She says, “I am Begum Sumroo, if you then rode up on her horse to the very door decree it” (P.98). Shah Alam replies, “I of the palace. I’ve never seen anything will decree it. I wish I could see you in like it. I couldn’t believe it was a woman this moment of my relief, in the moment of doing this. I just had to meet this amazing your glory” (P.98). Begum Sumroo sends person (P.100). for a physician to treat the blinded

Emperor. Whereas Ghulam Kadir reveals himself as an embodiment of treachery and Begum Sumroo’s extraordinary courage, hunger for power, Begum Sumroo has political tactics and presence of mind proved herself to be an avatar of political easily bring to our mind similar heroic loyalty and gratitude. When the Emperor Ranis of India – like Rani Mallamma of feels sad that he has no jewels left on his Belavadi, Rani Chennamma of Kittur, body now, Begum Sumroo offers the Rani Abbakka of Ullal and Rani Laxmibai beads brought by to the of Jhansi -- though the details of their Emperor until the jewels are found. situations vary from one another. Begum Sumroo assures Shah Alam, “Sire, the

physician is here. My brigade will guard Captain George Thomas, who has been the you till Sindhia’s forces arrive. I must go gunner in the service of the Nizam of now and see the capture of Ghulam Kadir Hyderabad, now seeks service with the and Mansur Ali” (P.101). Shah Alam Begum Sumroo. In spite of being English, wonders at the treachery of Mansur Ali, he wants to serve the non-English brigade

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“Oh. What a foul deceiver that Mansur exigencies of life. As she tells Father Ali turned out to be!” (P.101) Gregoria, “I made a promise long ago to

be more than equal to men” (P.107).

Though Farzana has been an able General as well as politician, she has the natural Father Gregorio understands the inner biological urges of a woman – like the dilemma of Begum Sumroo as a woman. desire for a man (at a time). She expresses He says, “She continues to amaze and confesses her dilemma before Father everyone. There are dances and balls and Gregorio, “I have been torn between love soirées… She…dances with many men… for two monsters – Sumroo and Kadir” She never seems…satisfied… Whatever (P.102). Father Gregorio points out that the Brigade may say, I’m convinced that her compassion for Kadir is misdirected. it’s her nature that makes her so… so free She confesses, “Father, it is not with her feelings but the curse of Ghulam compassion. That is why I have come to Kadir is at work. They say he cursed her confession. It is the left-over, smouldering to go on searching for love and passion of my youth… The heart is not fulfillment” (P.10). But in spite of her answerable as the mind is. I could not hidden frustration as a woman, she has control my heart. So I controlled my life achieved great success in her political and and that of others. I allowed Ghulam to be military career. Father Gregorio admires brutally punished once, because I wanted her wholeheartedly, “She is an revenge, because I wanted no other woman embodiment of generosity. And sense. to enjoy him. But now, I don’t have the Oh yes, sense! Ask her a military question strength to condemn him, as I must. ( She and she’ll give you a military answer. cries softly .)” (P.103). But in spite of such That’s why the finest commanders in tender feelings of love and the resultant Hindustan came to Sardhana. Sleeman, sexual jealousy hidden in her heart, Begum Skinner, Lord Lake… name them, they’ve Sumroo controls them in the face of the all been here. Ask her how to fund a larger political issues. For example when charity and she’ll tell you: ‘Set up a trust, Pauli comes and reports about their capture don’t touch the capital, invest it and let the of Ghulam Kadir, she orders the traitor to interest help the charity in perpetuity.’ be brought before her and fed to the That’s pretty sharp, and not just for a mere cannon fire. She has hardened herself to nautch girl. She’s a phenomenon. In deal successfully with the political Europe, I’m told they now say, ‘Go to

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India for two wonders – see the Taj Mahal stopped her from dining with the military and, if you can, meet Begum Sumroo” officers at the high table. Further, he (Pp.110-111). Father Gregorio’s points out the arrogance, the admiration for Begum Sumroo culminates possessiveness and lust for power that in his hope that “One day she’ll be made a characterize Pierre Le Vassoult, “Father, saint. The Begum Johanna Nobilis he does not like us to talk to her. He treats Sumroo is a benefactress beyond compare” us like vermin. He dines alone with her in (P.111). Father Gregorio’s admiration for her rooms. He orders us about. He’s still Begum Sumroo’s heroism, talent and only a captain. He talks to Brigadiers and resourcefulness is almost parallel to the Colonels and Majors as though they were present day Indians’ admiration for the subordinates! Even the simple foot- similar qualities in Mrs. Indira Gandhi, soldiers, who adore her, detest him. They who turned out to be a very successful fear she may marry him” (P.115). Father Prime Minister of India and earned the Gregorio thinks about the problem from love and admiration of her countrymen and the perspective of religious idealism when foreign politicians. he says, “She is free to marry. She is a widow… Marriage is a sacrament, my son.

It is preferable to living in sin” (P.115). It is exactly when Father Gregorio is But Saleur explains the problem from the admiring Begum Sumroo that Saleur military and practical point of view. He comes and reports some unpleasant news tells Father Gregorio that Le Vessault like Benedict’s suicide, Pauli’s being wants to marry Begum Sumroo not to have beheaded in a surprise attack and children and raise a family, as she happens Zulekha’s and Gauri’s being buried alive. to be barren, but to have power and control In addition he expresses his anxiety about over the Brigade, “He is after the Brigade. Sumroo’s attachment for several men, “All He wants to command it. As his wife she these men in her life. It’s may hand over the command to him. She very…worrying… So many of them. will. Women do these things. She must Indian, French and English too. They realize that we are her power” (P.115). were never able to defeat Sumroo. Now they want his Begum” (P.113). Saleur reveals the secret that the Irish adventurer Meanwhile Begum Farzana grows closer George Thomas, Pauli and now Pierre Le with her lover Le Vessault, who wants to Vassoult are her lovers; that Pierre has marry her and even take her to France.

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One night when they escape into the forest tree” (P.121). Begum Farzana has to for their secret honeymoon, the Brigade sacrifice her personal love for the sake of chases them. Now Le Vessault goes to enjoying her military and political power. another part of the forest, leaving Farzana She, therefore, exclaims, “Can real love at the same spot. Inayatullah, who has led occur between birds in a gilded cage? Or the Brigade meets Begum Sumroo and does one give up choice to master brute articulates his disapproval of her having a reality?” (P.121) Instead of tying her to a husband, “who does not match up to the tree, Inayatullah ties her to a cannon, with soldering abilities of General Sumroo” her arms pinned back in a crucifixion (P.120). She grasps their ideas and quickly against a barrel, as per the convention of decides to give up the idea of marriage in the Brigade. Thus Begum Sumroo is favour of the Brigade. She says, “In short, willing to punish herself thereby satisfying no husband and I have the Brigade” the Brigade. She orders them, “Leave me (P.120). In order to satisfy her Brigade she here till the men feel I’ve learnt my lesson has to sacrifice her love for Le Vessault. and will never repeat the mistake. For She proves it by saying, “Have no fear. I better or for worse, I know now I’m well choose to stay with the Brigade. A little and truly married to the Brigade. Then it cut through the blouse here. A little blood. will be safe to send someone out to rescue Nothing that a soldier need die from. Now me” (P.122). When Saleur wants to know take my blouse and find Le Vessault” who they should send, she suggests, (P.120). She takes off her blouse and “George Thomas, don’t you think? He is gives it to them. They want to march rather romantic. And charming. And he is forward and capture Le Vessault, in good sensible” (P.122). time. Farzana orders him further, “Show him the pierced and bloody blouse. And On the whole, the picture of Farzana he will shoot himself. You would not Begum Sumroo that emerges from this want the murder of a fellow-officer on historical play is that of an amazing lady your hands. It would be bad for the with an extraordinary political caliber, Brigade if I court-martialed its two senior military discipline and tactics. In Indian most officers. ( They smile ) As for the history we have many Ranis known for men, I know they will not be satisfied their heroism like Rani Mallamma of unless they see me chastised in some way. Belavadi Kingdom, Rani Chennamma of A military exercise satisfies and teaches Kittur Kingdom and Rani Laxmibai of only if it is successful. So tie me to this Volume III Issue No.II March 2013 Page 51

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Jhansi, but all of them hailed from royal Partap Sharma has been a theatre and backgrounds. But Farzana comes not from media personality, who, therefore, has a a royal family, but from a family of sense of the stage and its technique. He dancers, who are also incidentally knows how to convert the experience into prostitutes. Her phenomenal rise from the dramatic language and achieve an level of a dancing girl to that of a Begum, immediacy of appeal and liveliness. The her political alertness, quick decisions, dialogues in the play are sharp, smart and military efficiency, extraordinary pointed and therefore prove to be very generosity and her love affairs with a effective on the stage. Borrowing a theme number of men – all these qualities from the 18 th century Indian history and combined together cannot be found in any enlivening it with flesh and blood thereby other Indian woman or Rani. That is why capturing the attention of the twenty first the publishers describe the play as follows, century reader is not a joke, but certainly a “The play shows how an extremely remarkable achievement. Begum Sumroo capable Indian woman, with humble easily brings to our mind expert women beginnings as an impoverished dancing politicians like Mrs. Indira Gandhi and girl, took over the brigade from its smitten Mrs. Mayavati. Begum Sumroo’s life European commander, led it and made it provides a good ideal for our modern the most efficient in India, never lost a feminists, who want liberty without battle, rescued an Emperor, was wooed by responsibility. The other plays in Indian the English and French, had lovers of English Drama comparable to Begum many nationalities and, among her fans, Sumroo are Gurucharan Das’s Larins she could eventually count men of the Sahib and Manohar Malgonkar’s The Line cloth including the Pope. She also built a of Mars , which deal with similar, if not the couple of palaces that may be seen to this same, aspects of colonial encounter in the day. She was like an Indian equivalent of Indian context.

Joan of Arc but succeeded so admirably in all she did that she avoided being martyred *** and is therefore not remembered except by The popularity of this play may be a few historians. In short, the play is about understood by the fact that it was a European-officered brigade and an performed for over a year in India to amazing Indian woman, who was ahead of packed houses. As the publisher’s note her time and ours” (Back Cover). says, it was first performed and directed by

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Alyque Padamsee in a highly successful Government of Bombay, 1953. P. production that premiered in Bombay in 192.

July 1997 and ran through 1998. Similarly 9. Ibid . P.199. it was presented by Theater Rasa Nova in 10. Chaudhuri, Nirad C. Clive of San Francisco and directed by Vidhu India , Bombay: Jaico Press Pvt Ltd, 1977, Singh, former Managing Director of Asian P.22. American Theater Company.

*****

1. Chaudhuri, Nirad C. Clive of India ,

Bombay: Jaico Press Pvt Ltd, 1977, P.278.

2. Ibid . P.278.

3. Walter Reinhardt Sombre –

Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. htm. P.1.

4. –Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia , Pp.1-2.

5. Ibid . Pp.2-3.

6. Sharma, Partap, Begum Sumroo , New Delhi: Rupa & Co. 2004.

Pp.3-4. (All the subsequent page

references are to this edition.)

7. Begum Sumroo – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, P.2.

8. Sarkar, Jadunath, Ed & Tr.

Persian Records of Maratha History, Vol. I: Delhi Affairs.

Bombay: The Director of Archives,

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