One may think that children of the present generation are spoilt, selfish and uncaring. But what one fails to realise is that this is because they have no proper guidance. Young children are like clay and it is up to us to see that they are properly moulded. This was evident when this reporter got an opportunity to watch a ‘The First leaf’, a children’s play at Ranga Shankara in an exclusive kids- only show. The play tackles environmental issues, and with the world on an alert about global warming, the play could not have come at a better time.

‘The First Leaf’, directed by Padmavati Rao and originally written in Marathi by Shrirang Godbole, is a Ranga Shankara production. The play is set in the near future where the pollution levels are so high that people have to wear masks when they step out every evening. The story revolves around siblings Putti, Dodu and their friend Chinna who live in at ‘Gurukripa Complex’ and their journey to realisation.

The kids’ otherwise normal lives change when Sab Kuch Jane uncle comes to live in their apartments. He gets the children to be more aware of the deteriorating condition of the environment and urges them to do more for our planet. With simple hints and metaphors, the play tackles the affects of chemical factory that doesn’t use environmentally friendly machinery and methods, the effects of smoking, carrbon monoxide and much more.

The play ultimately boils down to a tree that the kids along with their Appa and Amma, Sab Kuch Jane uncle and Ajji, save from Mr Gurumurthy, the grouchy owner of the complex. The characters experience the joy of the first leaf and the blooming of the first leaf seems to bring hope for a better and greener future for our planet.

Well executed and with language and acting that eight year olds will relate to, the play was ideal for the school- children audience. It was interesting to note how deeply involved the young audience was, in the play and more importantly- in the message of the play. They were so involved in the story that they actually began talking to the actors, the most noteable instance being when the entire audience screamed out, pleading with ‘Appa’ not to smoke or when everyone was visible upset and angry when Mr Gurumurthy decided to cut down the tree. It only goes to show that with the right guidance, children can be responsible.

 The message of the play is clear and simple and while it touches on larger issues, it shows the audience what they can do to save the environment. If even one child in that audience planted a tree or used less plastic, or did anything to play his part in protecting the planet, then the play has served its purpose.

‘The First Leaf’ is ideal for young school children and is being staged again at Ranga Shankara from December 19 to 21. Morning shows are for school children and evening shows are open to public. Tickets are available at the venue.