Jammu,, Aug 2: Natrang presented its latest Hindi play, “Tootate Sapne”, compiled by Krishay Bhatia and directed by Neeraj Kant, as part of its weekly Sunday Theatre series. The powerful production delivered a compelling message on the devastating consequences of drug abuse, examination-related stress, and the growing moral and social challenges confronting today’s youth. Through an emotionally charged narrative, the play urged society to safeguard the dreams of young people by promoting awareness, compassion, and collective responsibility.

Speaking on the occasion, Natrang Director Balwant Thakur said that Natrang has always remained at the forefront of responding to changing social realities through theatre. He added that the institution has presented countless performances over the years to sensitize young people about the dangers of drug abuse and inspire them to make positive life choices.
The play opened with the entire cast entering as a chorus, singing a stirring song that gradually transformed into powerful slogans against drug abuse. Amid this atmosphere of protest, the audience witnessed a grieving mother sitting on a peaceful dharna, demanding justice for her daughter, who had died by suicide. At the same time, a group of young people raised their voices against the growing menace of substance abuse, setting the tone for an emotionally powerful performance.
When approached by a journalist, the mother narrated the tragic story of her family. Her husband was an alcoholic who returned home intoxicated every day, creating an environment of fear, violence, and emotional instability. Despite these hardships, she struggled to hold the family together while nurturing her daughter’s dream of becoming a doctor.
The daughter devoted herself wholeheartedly to preparing for the NEET examination, believing it to be the gateway to a brighter future. However, her dreams were shattered when the examination was cancelled following a question paper leak. The devastating news left her emotionally broken, making her feel that years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice had been rendered meaningless.
At her most vulnerable, instead of receiving genuine emotional support, she was misguided by friends who introduced her to drugs as a means of escaping her pain. Gradually, addiction clouded her judgment, leaving her increasingly isolated and helpless. Taking advantage of her vulnerable condition, a criminal sexually assaulted her. The combined trauma of the assault, addiction, and shattered aspirations pushed her into severe depression. Unable to cope with the overwhelming emotional burden, she ultimately died by suicide.
The tragedy left behind a devastated mother whose fight for justice became the voice of countless families torn apart by addiction, corruption, exploitation, and social neglect. Her protest symbolized not only the pain of losing her own daughter but also the anguish of every family that has lost a young life to drugs, exploitation, and systemic failures.
In the concluding moments of the play, government representatives assured the public that every possible measure would be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future. They announced financial assistance for the bereaved family and reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying the fight against drug abuse. The play concluded on a hopeful and inspiring note as the entire cast came together to pledge their collective responsibility towards building a Drug-Free India, reminding the audience that protecting the dreams of the younger generation is a shared responsibility of families, educational institutions, society, and the nation.
The production also conveyed a strong message of hope for Generation Z, reassuring young people that every setback can be overcome with courage, resilience, support, and a positive outlook. It emphasized that positivity attracts positivity, encouraging youth to believe in themselves, reject harmful influences, and continue pursuing their dreams with determination and confidence.
The play featured impressive performances by Arushi Sharma, Anamika Sharma, Maniya Mehra, Archie Chib, Param Sagar, Krishay Bhatia, and Aryan Sharma. Lighting design was executed by Neeraj Kant, sound was designed by Kandarv Sharma, and the overall stage presentation was managed by Mahikshit Singh.