History was created yesterday at the iconic drama hall of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, when a Malayalam play was staged for the first time in the institution’s long and celebrated cultural journey. The production, titled ‘Osyat – The Feast’, was brought to life by a 15-member team of students and teachers, led by a group of 13 Malayali students passionate about theatre and cultural expression.
The hall was packed with hundreds of enthusiastic spectators as Malayalam filled the arena, receiving overwhelming applause from the audience.
‘Osyat – The Feast’ is a poignant portrayal of a traditional Kerala family facing the death of an elderly member, followed by a complex property dispute. The play captures the emotional spectrum of love, conflict, anger, and reconciliation within the family, blending humour and sorrow in a compelling narrative.
One of the directors, Evelyn, shared that she never expected the play to make it to the stage initially, but the unwavering support from teachers and fellow students helped bring the production to life. She added that many aspects of the story resonated personally with several members of the team.
The performance stood out for its strong storytelling, natural acting, and emotional depth—winning the hearts even of non-Malayali students in the audience. Vice Principal Dr. Bobby Mathew noted that staging a Malayali production at St. Xavier’s was a proud milestone and a cultural moment for the college.
The play was co-directed by Don Joseph Sunil and Neeraj Krishna, with Essa Maria and Trisha Shaju composing the music, adding richness to the overall experience.
This groundbreaking Malayalam theatre production marks a new chapter in St. Xavier’s vibrant campus culture and serves as an inspiration for regional language arts in academic spaces.