Manoj Muntashir: India Returns To Roots
National Award-winner Manoj Muntashir talks about his musical and India's shift to its roots.

Manoj Muntashir, a renowned poet, lyricist, screen and dialogue writer, has been making waves in the entertainment industry with his unique perspective and talent. In a recent interview, he shared his thoughts on his musical, Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak, and the changing landscape of Indian entertainment.
Muntashir's musical, Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak, has been gaining attention for its innovative storytelling and presentation. The show is a three-hour narrative that explores the story of Krishna and Radha in a fresh and radical way. Muntashir explained that the idea was to move away from the usual stories and instead focus on the lesser-known aspects of Indian mythology.
The response to the musical has been overwhelming, with 70% of the audience being surprised and even shocked by the new stories and perspectives. Muntashir believes that this is a sign of the changing times, where audiences are looking for authentic and original content. He also noted that the rise of artificial intelligence has worked to the advantage of live entertainment, making it a Rs 18,000 crore business.
Muntashir's musical has completed its fifth run in Mumbai, with 23 housefull shows despite stiff ticket prices. The show has resonated with audiences, who have been moved to tears and have praised Muntashir's performance. He believes that the success of the show is a sign of the shift in the narrative, where Indians are moving away from a colonial mindset and returning to their roots.
The show's success has also sparked interest in taking it to international audiences. Muntashir mentioned that a play called Hamare Ram has already sold a record 23,000 tickets in London, and he is planning to tour the US in March. He is optimistic that the show will resonate with western audiences, who are looking for authentic and original content.
Muntashir also talked about the importance of making content that is entertaining and engaging. He believes that unless the content is entertaining, people will not learn from it. He plans to create more stories and shows that are woven around mythological characters, full of color, flair, and Indianness.
The success of Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak has also helped to alleviate the disappointment of Adipurush's failure. Muntashir had admitted that the failure of Adipurush had been a setback, but the success of his musical has helped to redeem him.
In conclusion, Manoj Muntashir's musical, Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak, is a sign of the changing times in Indian entertainment. The show's success is a testament to the power of original and authentic content, and the shift in the narrative towards a more Indian-centric approach. As Muntashir continues to create and innovate, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for him and the Indian entertainment industry.
The shift towards Indian roots and culture is a significant trend in the entertainment industry. With the rise of artificial intelligence and the demand for original content, it is likely that we will see more shows and stories that celebrate Indian mythology and culture. Muntashir's musical is just the beginning, and it will be interesting to see how this trend evolves in the future.
Overall, Manoj Muntashir's interview provides valuable insights into the changing landscape of Indian entertainment. His thoughts on the importance of original content, the shift towards Indian roots, and the power of live entertainment are all significant trends that will shape the future of the industry.
The success of Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in the entertainment industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see what new and exciting stories and shows emerge. With the rise of artificial intelligence and the demand for original content, it is likely that we will see more shows and stories that celebrate Indian mythology and culture.
In the end, Manoj Muntashir's musical, Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak, is a sign of the exciting times ahead for the Indian entertainment industry. With its innovative storytelling, authentic content, and celebration of Indian culture, it is a show that will resonate with audiences for a long time to come.
Frequently asked questions
What is Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak about?
Krishna-Radha Se Ranbhumi Tak is a musical that explores the story of Krishna and Radha in a fresh and radical way.
Will the show be taken to international audiences?
Yes, the show's success has sparked interest in taking it to international audiences, with plans to tour the US in March.