কেনারাম বেচারাম : বিষয় ও আঙ্গিক ভাবনা / KENARAM BECHARAM : BISHOY O ANGIK BHABNA

Abstract

In the post-independence era, the problem of homelessness following the partition of the country became a major issue in West Bengal. The problem of elderly people being homeless and the irresponsibility of children towards their elderly parents is a recurring theme in Manoj Mitra's plays. We see the reflection of this theme in his play ‘Kenaram Becharam’. Becharam Babu has left his home, fed up with the abuse from his son and daughter-in-law. His son, daughter-in-law, daughter and son-in-law show no remorse. They are only interested in seizing Becharam Babu's money and jewellery. The younger son, Pintu, is engrossed in his love affair with his girlfriend, Kakatuya. Kakatuya, too, has chosen Pintu as her lover out of greed for Becharam Babu's money and jewellery. Nagen Panja brings an imposter named Kenaram and presents him as their father. They accept Kenaram Babu as their father solely out of greed for his money and jewellery. The son, daughter-in-law, daughter and son-in-law continue to serve and care for Kenaram Babu out of greed for his property. In this way, Manoj Mitra brings to light deep-rooted social issues through humour in the play. And when we learn that Nagen Panja himself is homeless, our sympathy is aroused for him. Nagen Panja himself is neglected by his wife. At the end of the play, Becharam Babu returns. At the insistence of Becharam Babu's grandson, Toton, his parents and aunt give Becharam Babu a place in the house with respect. The older generation learns a lesson from the younger generation. Nagen Panja put Kakatuya behind bars and saves Pintu from her. Finally, Nagen Panja takes Kenaram Babu away to settle him elsewhere.