KATHMANDU: The Nepali play “Haraayeko Kukur” (The Lost Dog), a social and political drama, is set to be staged from Saturday at the Mandala Theater in Thapagaun, Kathmandu.
The play, written and directed by Mani Kulung Rai, who has been gaining acclaim on stage recently, will run until July 20.
Mani Kulung, born in Haunchur, Rawabesi Rural Municipality-4, Khotang, and currently based in Kathmandu, said the play will be staged daily at 4:00 PM except Mondays. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the show will also be performed at 12:00 PM.
Kulung described the drama as a metaphorical play that highlights injustice within state structures, bias in investigations, and the suppression of citizens’ voices.
“The lost dog symbolizes the truth lost by the state,” he said. “This is not just a story about a missing dog; it is a powerful theatrical performance that criticizes government flaws, awakens public consciousness, and questions structural injustice.”
The plot starts with an ordinary incident of a lost dog, but gradually unfolds into a serious social and political discourse.
According to Kulung, while the lost dog is found by the play’s climax, the deeper issues raised remain unresolved, leaving the audience to reflect. “We believe this play will deeply resonate with many viewers,” he added.
The drama is adapted by Rabin Tamang and will feature performances by Kiran Nepali, Smriti Kalmar, Rezmi Rai, Indreni Kulung, Rama Kulung, Abinash DM, Meena Shrestha, Mani Kulung, and Sunil Bahing Rai.
The production team includes Amir Tamrakar and Navin Kafle on sound design, Umesh Tamang handling lighting design, and Sunil Bahing Rai as lighting director. Additional cast members are Deepa Magarati, Dinesh Shrestha, Pujan Limbu, Akash Magar, Manjil Magar, Anup Neupane, and Pragya Bista.
Mandala Theater, run by renowned Nepali theater artist Dayahang Rai, has released a trailer for the play, which will run for two weeks.
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