Myth, Power, and the Woman’s Voice: The ‘Women’s Trilogy’ at IHC

This weekend, the India Habitat Centre (IHC)—Delhi’s premier multidisciplinary cultural hub—becomes the staging ground for a powerful theatrical exploration of Indian mythology. The Stein Auditorium is playing host to the highly anticipated “Women’s Trilogy,” a series of Hindi plays that reimagine classic epics through a contemporary, gender-focused lens.

The trilogy, featuring the plays “Karn,” “Madhav,” and “Draupadi,” is a deep dive into the psyche of characters who have often been relegated to the margins or viewed through a singular traditional perspective. For the Delhi audience, this isn’t just a theatrical performance; it’s an intellectual exercise in reclaiming history.

Reimagining the Epic Canvas

The plays are designed to be seen as a cohesive journey, though each stands firmly on its own:

• The Perspective of the Other: The plays move away from the traditional “hero’s journey” to look at the collateral damage of war and the emotional labor of the women behind the warriors. By focusing on figures like Draupadi and the women surrounding Karn, the production challenges the audience to rethink their understanding of justice and sacrifice.
• Minimalist Grandeur: Unlike the sprawling television spectacles of the Mahabharata, these stage versions rely on “poor theatre” techniques—using light, shadow, and powerful vocal performances to create the atmosphere of ancient palaces and bloody battlefields.
• Modern Dialogue: While the setting is ancient, the dialogue is sharply modern. It addresses themes of agency, consent, and systemic power, making the stories feel incredibly relevant to the social conversations happening in 2026.

The IHC Experience
Visiting the India Habitat Centre Click to open side panel for more information is a weekend ritual for many Delhiites. Beyond the performance in the Stein Auditorium, the venue offers a complete cultural afternoon. You can browse the outdoor photography exhibits in the Atrium, visit the Visual Arts Gallery, or grab a post-show coffee at the American Diner or Eatopia.

The “Women’s Trilogy” is particularly popular among the city’s academic and artistic circles, often followed by spontaneous discussions in the IHC courtyards. It is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates theatre that asks difficult questions and refuses to give easy answers.

Event Details:

Tickets: Available via the IHC programs desk or online portal.

Venue: Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre (IHC), Lodhi Road

Date: Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 2026

Language: Hindi

Weekend Summary: Your Delhi Culture Map

To help you plan your movements across the city, here is a quick look at where these events are situated: