Software meets stage as Hyderabad-based Nikhil Ahuja gears up to make a debut as theatre director. After working for 15 years in the IT industry, he recently shifted to professional theatre by launching his own group, Bias Check theatre. The group’s inaugural production Sheher-e-Manto’: A Journey through the Gritty Satires of Saadat Hasan Manto will be staged at Lamakaan and Rangbhoomi Spaces on May 23 and 30.
Slice of life
All set: Cast and the crew | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The play brings to life three distinct stories and perspectives by Manto and is presented in a lighthearted way. “They are everyday narratives offering a slice of life,” says Nikhil, who connected to these stories staged in his hometown Delhi. “Manto’s work remains disturbingly relevant, and we wanted to present that honesty to the local audience.” While he wants to keep the names of the stories a surprise, the production is deeply personal as Nikhil had first read and practiced these stories when he made a debut with theatre,
Nikhil Ahuja | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Nikhil’s tryst with theatre began in Delhi three years ago with a workshop organised by Asmita Theatre group. A professional shift to Hyderabad kept the passion alive as he worked with KissaGo, Samahaara and Echoes of Drama in different roles including directing a concise production for Dramanon’s SKiTS 2026, a 12-minute short play festival.
After exploring various departments of theatre, he quit tech to pursue his passion. “People think designing a product relies on mathematical principles but creativity is the core of this process. As multiple teams work together to make a play, several elements are seamlessly integrated to build a full-fledged application/product, “ he says reflecting on his twin interests. He also busts a myth: “People think software professionals do not have time to nurture their creative potential but with a bit of balance, one can have time to do what one loves.”
Rehearsal session | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The group’s name Bias Check is crafted to represent their aim of showcasing stories from multiple perspectives: “We look at every discussion from the other perspective so that our ‘biases’ are under check.”
Sheher-e-Manto’: A Journey through the Gritty Satires of Saadat Hasan Manto to be staged at Lamakaan and Rangbhoomi Spaces on May 23 and 30; Tickets: Bookmyshow