In a land not far away, a playwright by the name of Hartman De Souza spun a captivating tale known as ‘Soldier’s Silence’. This masterpiece delved into the intertwined lives of two soldiers, one American and one Iraqi, as they grappled with the turmoil of war. Their fates collided in an Indian airport, setting the stage for a mesmerising exploration of the human experience amidst the darkness of conflict.

In a recent performance at Lamakaan and Rangbhoomi Spaces & Events, the characters leapt off the stage through the remarkable talents of Shivam Sardana and Sahej Aziz. With a minimalist stage adorned only by a bench and a suitcase, the setting became a poignant battleground for the soldiers’ internal struggles. As the narrative unfolded, the audience was drawn into the emotional landscapes of the characters, traversing the depths of agony and the yearning for normality.

The play, brought to life by the SPACE Theatre Ensemble, used the interplay of light and darkness as a metaphor, illuminating the shared experiences of the soldiers. In the words of Shivam, “There are no winners in a war, no bravery or glory. This play aims to convey that even the perpetrators of war are victims of it because they can’t feel their own pain.”

At its heart, ‘Soldier’s Silence’ serves as a reminder that in the grim theatre of war, there are no victors—only victims. It transcends the conventional notions of heroism and villainy, delving into the profound complexities of conflict. As the characters navigate the tumultuous waters of pain, they begin to uncover unexpected common ground. What initially divided them might just be the key to bringing them together, or at least help them see beyond their animosity towards each other.

Reflecting on the play’s relevance in present times, Sahej spoke of war as a personal struggle, remarking, “The play leads to the idea that ‘what saves us in the end, works.’ For me, art is the saviour.” His words struck a chord with the audience, underscoring the transformative power of art in the face of adversity.

The performance, with its seamless transitions and immersive atmosphere, left the audience captivated. It was a tale of unlikely connections, a reminder that amidst the greed and conflict that reverberate through the world, there remains a glimmer of hope—that one day, the human spirit will rise above the shadows of war and discover the threads that bind us all. This was not merely a play; it was a journey, a testament to the enduring resilience of the human heart.