Amrapali-V.Balakrishnanan

Born around 600-500 BCE, to unknown parents, the  ‘Nagarvadhu’ of Vaishali fell in love with King Bimbisara and made him cease hostile intentions towards Vaishali. Other legends talk of Ajatashatru desiring her and how he massacred the entire republic of Vaishali but spared Amrapali. She had the honour to serve food to the Buddha on his last visit to Vaishali. Later, she renounced her life as the Janapada Kalyani and embraced the way of the Buddha.

My play endeavours to trace Amrapali’s conflicts and strifes as she walked towards her awakening, towards her liberation and joy.