Rajadhiraaj: Love. Life. Leela is an immersive journey into the life and teachings of Shri Krishna
This weekend, Delhi witnessed an extraordinary confluence of glamour, devotion and art as Rajadhiraaj: Love. Life. Leela, the world’s first musical on Lord Krishna’s journey, took center-stage at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Auditorium.
With a host of Bollywood stars and a packed audience of Delhi’s who’s who, the production transformed a traditional narrative into an unforgettable cultural experience.
Bollywood heartthrobs Shahid Kapoor and Bhumi Pednekar added a dash of glamour on the premiere evening, while the following night saw stars Shraddha Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor and Vedang Raina joining the celebrations. Their presence amplified the buzz surrounding the musical, which has already created waves in Mumbai at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre’s (NMACC) Grand Theatre.
The brainchild of visionary Dhanraj Nathwani, Rajadhiraaj is no ordinary theatre production. It is an immersive journey into the life and teachings of Shri Krishna, brought to life through a stunning mix of music, storytelling, and visual artistry. From the playful days in Vrindavan to the regal splendour of Dwarka, the musical captures the essence of Krishna’s journey in a way that resonates with modern audiences.
The production owes much of its emotional depth to the evocative words of Padma Shri awardee Prasoon Joshi, whose screenplay is brought to life under the expert direction of Shruti Sharma. Together, they have created a spectacle that balances devotion with drama, blending tradition with innovation.
One cannot talk about Rajadhiraaj without mentioning its music. Composed by the celebrated duo Sachin-Jigar, the 20 original tracks are a masterful blend of Western symphonic arrangements recorded in Budapest and traditional Indian classical melodies. The result is a soundtrack that is as soulful as it is grand.
The visuals are equally breathtaking. National Award-winning designer Omung Kumar’s intricate sets transport the audience across time and space, while choreographers Bertwin D’Souza and Shampa Gopikrishna infuse each scene with energy and grace. Costume designer Neeta Lulla adds yet another layer of magnificence with over 1,800 bespoke outfits that breathe life into Krishna’s world.
“It’s like being part of a dream,” said an audience member. “Every detail, from the music to the costumes, pulls you into Krishna’s universe.”
But Rajadhiraaj is more than just a show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It bridges the gap between the divine and the artistic, offering audiences a chance to connect with Krishna’s timeless leelas while celebrating the best of contemporary theatre.
Running in Delhi until December 8
